The Federation of European Bars has the great honour and pleasure of holding its General Congress in Bern, the capital of Switzerland, at the heart of Europe.
We are particularly pleased to have the opportunity to discuss topics of utmost relevance and fundamental importance for our profession and the rule of law :
The brand-new Council of Europe Convention for the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer.
The next generation — the lawyers of tomorrow.
The exchanges and contacts between bars and lawyers from across Europe promise to be highly enriching and fruitful.
Shaping the Future of the Legal Profession : Protecting Lawyers, Supporting the Next Generation
The Federation of European Bars (FBE) cordially invites legal professionals from across Europe to its upcoming congress, which will take place in Bern, Switzerland, from 29 to 31 May 2025. This prestigious gathering will bring together renowned experts and distinguished speakers to explore the most pressing challenges and developments currently shaping the legal profession.
An Inspiring Setting in the Heart of Switzerland
Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Bern will provide a stunning backdrop for this year’s congress. Participants will engage in stimulating discussions while discovering the city’s rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks and magnificent Alpine views. Combining dynamic debates with exceptional networking opportunities, the congress promises an unforgettable experience, blending professional excellence with Swiss hospitality.
Key Themes of the Congress
1. The Convention on the Protection of the Legal Profession – A Key Step for the Independence of the Profession
Across Europe, lawyers increasingly face threats to their professional independence, including breaches of professional secrecy, restrictions on freedom of expression, harassment, and even imprisonment. The Convention for the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer represents a crucial step in safeguarding legal professionals and upholding the rule of law. Key discussions will explore:
The development and key provisions of the Convention
First-hand accounts of the challenges faced by lawyers across Europe
The role of Bars and national legal systems in integrating the Convention into substantive law
Practical strategies for lawyers and Bars to leverage the Convention in their defense
Insights into supranational oversight mechanisms (GRAVO/Committee of Ministers)
Awareness to the benefits that the convention provides to lawyers and Bars and diffusion within the profession
2. Young Lawyers: Access, Knowledge Transfer, and Tools for the Future
The legal profession must evolve to ensure that young lawyers not only gain access to the profession but also thrive in an ever-changing legal landscape. This session will focus on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of young lawyers, including :
Breaking down barriers to entry and expanding access to the profession
Knowledge transfer through mentoring and intergenerational cooperation
Embracing AI, digital transformation, and emerging legal technologies
Rethinking career paths and achieving a sustainable work-life balance
Why You Can’t Miss This Congress
Engaging, dynamic, and deeply relevant, the FBE Congress 2025 will provide high-level yet practical discussions on the most critical issues facing legal professionals today. Set in one of Europe’s most picturesque capitals, this event is an unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of the legal profession.
European Bars Federation
On May 23 1992, the Conférence des Premiers Barreaux, which had been created in 1986, became the Fédération des Barreaux d'Europe. It is open to all Bars established in a member state of the Council of Europe. At present, it brings together over 200 local and regional Bars, representing some 1 million lawyers.
The statutory aims of the Fédération des Barreaux d'Europe can be summarized in a few fundamental principles :
Create an independent organization to ensure respect for the essential principles of the legal profession in Europe.
Defending the fundamental principles set out in the European Convention on Human Rights.
Guarantee the services of independent lawyers to individuals and businesses.
Seek recognition of the special role played by European Bars in defending all freedoms against all political, economic and judicial authorities.
Promote exchanges between lawyers in member countries, but also between different continents, in particular with bars bordering the Mediterranean.
Association of Bernese Lawyers
The Bern Bar Association is one of the 24 cantonal bar associations in Switzerland. It was founded in 1892 at the Casino de Berne. The year it was founded, the Bern Lawyers' Association had four founding members and 29 members. Today, it has 805 members.
Like the Canton of Bern, the Bern Lawyers' Association is bilingual. It brings together German-speaking and French-speaking lawyers in the Canton of Berne.
As a member of the FBE, the Association des avocats bernois has the task and honor of organizing the 2025 Congress, with the support of the Fédération suisse des avocats, the Ordre des avocats genevois and the Ordre des avocats vaudois.
Swiss Bar Association
The Swiss Bar Association, founded in 1898, comprises the 24 cantonal bar associations. All lawyers who are members of a cantonal bar association are automatically members of the Swiss Bar Association.