As the event opened, our President Giovanni Carotenuto highlighted the strength of our network and the importance of synergy between the legal sector and the Third Sector. Attilio Pavone (Norton Rose Fulbright) underscored how pro bono work also plays a key role in the training of young professionals.
Together with Heidi Ceffa (Fondazione Welfare Ambrosiano) and Paolo Matteucci (Fondazione Alberto Sordi), we explored two equally urgent yet distinct areas: legal assistance in microcredit processes, and the protection of the rights of the elderly.
Elena Esposito, our Secretary, presented the growing numbers of the Clearinghouses of Pro Bono Italia and CSVnet – Associazione Centri di Servizio per il Volontariato, which are now better equipped to respond effectively, thanks to digital tools and a more engaged and aware network.
A key highlight was the work of the Permanent Immigration Law Working Group, presented by Giovanni Carotenuto and enriched by the contribution of Kataryna Pashkova (United For Ukraine), who shared several projects supporting Ukrainian refugees. This ongoing effort will lead to the publication of a position paper at the upcoming PILnet Global Forum.
Fabi Fugazza (Italian Coalition for Civil Liberties and Rights – CILD) reminded us of the importance of integrating training, intervention, and advocacy, by presenting the projects Pro Bono LGBTQIA+ and Know Your Rights. Finally, Giulia Patanè (PILnet) spoke about the Global Refugee Pledge, an initiative that unites the legal community in support of refugees, and previewed the 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱, which will be hosted in Rome, inviting everyone to help elevate Italy’s leadership on the international stage.
The day concluded with a passionate speech by Todd Crider (Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, Advisory Board of Pro Bono Italia ETS), who reaffirmed that pro bono commitment is now, more than ever, a moral obligation in defense of democracy and fundamental rights.
An intense and inspiring day, filled with vision, shared experiences, and new connections.
Because meaningful change is always a collective effort.
