Welcome addresses by supporters and patrons of The Women in Law Initiative: All Sessions take place at the University of Vienna, Oskar-Morgenstern-Platz 1, 1090 Vienna, [open map]

As an international forum addressing Contemporary Issues for Women in Law, we find ourselves at the intersection of so many hot and controversial issues from around the globe: Human Rights Issues with a Focus on Womens‘ Rights Issues of Access to the Law in general and of Access to Justice in particular Issues surrounding Successful Legal Careers now and in the future Many of these are addressed in an inspiring critical documentary by Dr. Kumm Sabba Mirza. The Lesser Lawyers is a powerful documentary that unveils the untold stories of female lawyers who fight for justice. Through intimate interviews and real-life cases, this film highlights the courage and resilience of women who take on the toughest legal battles, often with little recognition. Witness their journey as they navigate the complexities of the law, seeking justice for the marginalized. We will open this year’s conference by watching an excerpt of the documentary followed by a few remarks of its director Kumm Sabba Mirza. After the Documentary, Paula Tavares will give a Keynote Speech on the topic of “Global Transformation towards Gender Equality and Agenda 2030: advancing reforms to end discrimination in law and practice”. Across the globe much progress has been...Read More

Staying Successful in the Legal Professions in 2030+ by Embracing the Artificial Intelligence Wave in Law Successful legal professions in 2030+ will require a new approach to the practice of law. As AI advances, certain jobs will inevitably be replaced. This track will offer a comprehensive understanding of what it will take to smartly embrace the artificial intelligence wave and keep up with the legal industry in a changing landscape. We will explore which legal processes might be immune to AI, which procedures must be adapted to remain competitive, and which solutions legal professionals offer, that AI cannot. Our experts will also address the benefits of legal tech and AI. They will discuss how technologies can free up space and time for more creative, attractive, and meaningful work. They will also share ideas on how legal tech can foster equality. We will imagine what the legal professions may look like after 2030, and how legal professionals can prepare for success in this new era. Join us and be part of the conversation on how the legal professions can thrive in the future, whilst also contributing to a better world. Panel moderation by Elisabeth Vanas-Metzler, Keynote speaker Nikolaus Forgó followed by...Read More

Strategies and Tactics: Empowering Legal Professionals in Fighting Gender-Based Violence and Creating a Gender-Inclusive Practice Legal professionals make a significant difference in the prevention of gender-based violence. This track provides an in-depth exploration of the unique challenges legal professionals face when it comes to dealing with gender-based violence.   We’ll discuss topics ranging from sexual harassment all the way to femicide as they apply to all of the legal profession. From understanding the relevant laws and regulations to developing strategies around the prevention of violence in all of its forms, our experts help all legal professionals recognize the nuances of gender-based violence and how it affects their practice.   Participants in our conference will leave with an understanding of how to help and assist victims of violence, the best ways to pro-actively improve their work environment to be gender-inclusive, and the ability to better recognize and empower those who may be vulnerable to gender-based violence. Let us help you make a difference in the lives of those affected by gender-based violence.   introductory keynote expert panel discussion  

Staying Successful in the Legal Professions in 2030+ by Embracing the Artificial Intelligence Wave in Law Successful legal professions in 2030+ will require a new approach to the practice of law. As AI advances, certain jobs will inevitably be replaced. This track will offer a comprehensive understanding of what it will take to smartly embrace the artificial intelligence wave and keep up with the legal industry in a changing landscape. We will explore which legal processes might be immune to AI, which procedures must be adapted to remain competitive, and which solutions legal professionals offer, that AI cannot.   Our experts will also address the benefits of legal tech and AI. They will discuss how technologies can free up space and time for more creative, attractive, and meaningful work. They will also share ideas on how legal tech can foster equality.   We will imagine what the legal professions may look like after 2030, and how legal professionals can prepare for success in this new era. Join us and be part of the conversation on how the legal professions can thrive in the future, whilst also contributing to a better world.   delve deeper into the topic in this interactive...Read More

Strategies and Tactics: Empowering Legal Professionals in Fighting Gender-Based Violence and Creating a Gender-Inclusive Practice Legal professionals make a significant difference in the prevention of gender-based violence. This track provides an in-depth exploration of the unique challenges legal professionals face when it comes to dealing with gender-based violence.   We’ll discuss topics ranging from sexual harassment all the way to femicide as they apply to all of the legal profession. From understanding the relevant laws and regulations to developing strategies around the prevention of violence in all of its forms, our experts help all legal professionals recognize the nuances of gender-based violence and how it affects their practice.   Participants in our conference will leave with an understanding of how to help and assist victims of violence, the best ways to pro-actively improve their work environment to be gender-inclusive, and the ability to better recognize and empower those who may be vulnerable to gender-based violence. Let us help you make a difference in the lives of those affected by gender-based violence. Delve deeper into the topic in this interactive practical workshop.

Building a Prosperous Future For All: How the Legal Professions Can Embrace ESG and SDG Principles We are proud to offer a comprehensive conference track focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues and principles and their impact on women in the legal professions. This track will also discuss the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are a call to action in the global mission to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.   This track will help you gain knowledge in ESG and the SDGs, enabling you to, among other things, start building a business model that works to benefit the planet and people alike. Together with our experts, you will discuss a wide range of topics, such as ESG as an equity factor, ESG as a business model for legal professionals, the ever-increasing importance of ESG reports for clients, in-house counsel, and compliance officers, and the impact of SDG-inspired legislation on the legal professions.   Join us and discover how legal professionals can ensure a prosperous future by becoming leaders in promoting gender-based social responsibility and sustainable development. Moderation by Dr. Aida von Schulman, Keynote speaker Marlen Estévez, expert panel...Read More

Breaking Down Barriers: Effective Ways to Ensure Access to Justice for All Access to justice is far too often restricted for those who need it most. The dichotomy between black letter law and the reality is stark in many countries. Our conference track on „Access to Justice“ will explore the most innovative and efficient ways to break down barriers to meaningful justice and how to provide equal representation to underrepresented and marginalized groups.   Our lineup of distinguished speakers, including representatives from the European Union, the World Bank, and other influential bodies, will provide expert solutions to questions such as how to finance access to justice efforts, how to develop partnerships with key stakeholders, and how to effectively employ class action lawsuits and pro bono work to build equitable access to justice worldwide.   This conference track will provide a unique opportunity to unlock the latest approaches and to discuss the regional differences, challenges, and best practices in improving access to justice globally, ensuring no one is overlooked. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to become part of the solution, and to promote equality and fairness within the justice system. Moderation by Paula Tavares     introductory keynote expert panel discussion...Read More

In this interactive workshop, participants will evaluate a hypothetical scenario involving a company facing a multifaceted ESG challenge.  After breaking into groups, participants will discuss the scenario from the perspective of various stakeholders.  Participants will identify the goals and interests of their stakeholder group and the relevant laws, regulations, and/or U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that may be leveraged or grappled with in pursuit of these goals and interests.  No prior knowledge of ESG regulations/laws and SDGs is required – relevant material will be distributed and explained during the workshop. The workshop will also touch on the role of women in the legal profession as relates to ESG.  

Breaking Down Barriers: Effective Ways to Ensure Access to Justice for All Access to justice is far too often restricted for those who need it most. The dichotomy between black letter law and the reality is stark in many countries. Our conference track on „Access to Justice“ will explore the most innovative and efficient ways to break down barriers to meaningful justice and how to provide equal representation to underrepresented and marginalized groups.   Our lineup of distinguished speakers, including representatives from the European Union, the World Bank, and other influential bodies, will provide expert solutions to questions such as how to finance access to justice efforts, how to develop partnerships with key stakeholders, and how to effectively employ class action lawsuits and pro bono work to build equitable access to justice worldwide.   This conference track will provide a unique opportunity to unlock the latest approaches and to discuss the regional differences, challenges, and best practices in improving access to justice globally, ensuring no one is overlooked. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to become part of the solution, and to promote equality and fairness within the justice system.   delve deeper into the topic in this interactive practical workshop

Palace of Justice (Justizpalast) Schmerlingplatz 10-11, 1010 Vienna  [open map]   formal attire requested Check-In: 19:00 – 19:30 Please arrive early to leave enough time to check in and take your seats

We end The Women in Law Conference 2024 with a Saturday filled with social programs and ample opportunities for further networking.