Landmark legislation
Gazette, Greek Reporter and Solicitors Journal report on the Law Society welcoming the passage through the Greek parliament of a law enabling UK lawyers to practise in Greece under their home title.
Law Society president Nick Emmerson said: “This is a landmark achievement for UK lawyers and law firms. The Law Society has worked tirelessly with the UK government to ensure that our members can continue to provide their services in one of the continent’s most important markets. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all those involved in this process, including our counterparts in Greece and the UK government, for their unwavering support and commitment.”
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Reasonable adjustments
Disability Horizons reports on the new Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) guidance to help employers understand their legal obligations and the steps they can take to support disabled employees, especially in hybrid working environments.
Law Society president Nick Emmerson said: “Implementing reasonable adjustments are important for organisations, as it ensures our disabled colleagues are able to work in an environment that meets their needs.
“The Legally Disabled? research from Cardiff University and the Law Society’s Disabled Solicitors Network found clear evidence that disability has been largely overlooked when it comes to improving diversity and inclusion in the solicitors’ profession.
“We welcome the EHRC’s new guidance and resources, as it provides practical tips on what employers can do – such as identifying technology to help disabled employees work flexibly – to create a working environment fit for disabled people.”
AI regulation
The Gazette reports on the government taking a step towards regulating artificial intelligence (AI) by becoming one of the first states to sign a measure drafted by the 46-member Council of Europe.
Law Society president Nick Emmerson said: "Signing the UK’s first treaty on the safe use of AI marks a significant milestone for the legal sector. This treaty upholds fundamental principles such as human rights, democracy and the rule of law, which must remain at the forefront and pave the way for much-needed further cooperation between states in the Council of Europe and beyond.
“While this is a promising start, it is just the beginning. It is essential that the UK takes a leading role in shaping future treaties and other international AI governance initiatives. By ensuring that AI development is responsible and remains aligned with our shared legal and ethical values, we can more safely take full advantage of the opportunities AI affords us."
Human rights
A former chair of the Law Society’s human rights committee, Professor Sara Chandler KC (Hon), writes in the Gazette about an investigation into the situation of human rights defenders in Colombia.
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