ABA co-hosts programs exploring legal challenges during 2023 UN Climate Change Conference

The American Bar Association will co-host - with the International Bar Association, Brazilian Bar Association and Law Society of England and Wales - two panel discussions during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) Nov. 30-Dec. 12 in Expo City Dubai, Al Wasl Avenue, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The two programs are:

• “Everything, Everywhere, All at Once: Why Lawyers are Essential to Tackling the Triple Planetary Crisis” — This discussion, which includes pre-recorded video remarks by ABA President Mary Smith, focuses on the role of lawyers and law associations in tackling the climate crisis. Learn from experts about legal capacity building across nations, regulatory steps taken by bars and law societies regarding climate change and the rise of climate conscious lawyering and what this means in practice for lawyers when advising clients. Hear stories from commercial lawyers, academics, NGOs and policymakers who are collaborating to implement the just transition at speed and scale. Dec. 8, 4-10:30 a.m. For additional information and to register, visit https://bit.ly/3RjLgNg.

• “@COP28 Blue Zone: Lawyers, Bars & Law Societies in the Climate Crisis” — The law has a crucial role in tackling climate change. Professional organizations represent thousands of lawyers advising companies and governments that sponsor major projects and set climate policy. The discussion will cover the unique role of law and law associations in regulating, training and sharing best legal practice examples to further climate objectives and implementation strategies for the net zero transition and realization of country NDCs, including new initiatives and implementation efforts. The event will also be a forum that provides networking opportunities for practitioners and law associations to collaborate at a transboundary and international level.
Dec. 11, 7:45-9:15 a.m.  For additional information and to register, visit https://bit.ly/49ZCJ9C.

Both events are free and will be available online for registered attendees. Links for recordings will be provided to registered attendees when they become available.

COP28 brings together world leaders, politicians, experts and others to discuss the climate crisis on a global level. The ABA was first granted observer status to COP26 and is sending two representatives to attend COP28.