The European Committee of Legal Co-operation (CDCJ) wishes to mark the first anniversary of the opening for signature, during the 134th session of the Committee of Ministers in Luxembourg, of the Council of Europe Convention for the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer (Luxembourg Convention), which was prepared under its responsibility.

Lawyers are an essential component of any well-functioning justice system and a further guarantee of effective access to justice and a fair trial for everyone. The Luxembourg Convention is the first international treaty that affords protection for lawyers and their professional organisations. It responds to increasing reports of attacks on lawyers practising their profession, whether in the form of harassment, threats, attacks, or interference with the free exercise of their professional duties.

The CDCJ welcomes the many signatures that have taken place in just one year (29 signatures to date) and calls for further signatures and ratifications to enable its swift entry into force. Entry into force, which requires eight ratifications, will not only give effect to the convention but also make it possible for states worldwide to join it.