Communities of Conscience

Criminal defense training is far from a universal concept and therefore difficult to come by in most developing countries. As many laws that uphold basic rights are relatively new, academics, criminal justice partners and legal practitioners have not yet developed and implemented procedures that apply and protect these rights. To address this development and implementation, IBJ creates empowerment and cultural exchange programs called Communities of Conscience. These Communities enable defense lawyers in North America and Europe, and legal aid lawyers in developing countries to exchange best practices and skills.

Typically, selected defenders travel to a North American or European location for an intensive training program that comprises on-site visits to public defender or legal aid offices, detention centers, courthouses and law firms and also offers practical skills training in legal skills vital for effective practice. These exchanges create a network of skilled practitioners and mentors, who offer guidance, awareness and support for the role of defenders worldwide. The participants return to their legal communities to operate as leaders and trainers.

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