Background and Significance
After a gap of 26 years, Guadalajara, Jalisco, will host the 69th Congress of the International Union of Lawyers (UIA). This prestigious event brings together two million independent litigants, law firms, and bar associations from 110 countries. It is the second time in a century that this significant legal gathering will take place in Mexico, highlighting its global importance.
Key Themes and Speakers
The congress will focus on two primary themes. First, addressing investment disputes due to the current geopolitical reconfiguration and the impending renegotiation of the Trades-Mexico, USA, Canada Agreement (T-MEC). Fernando Hernández, the newly elected president of UIA, emphasized these concerns during an interview with El Economista.
“With the current geopolitical and geoeconomic reconfiguration, it’s a matter of concern… The T-MEC renegotiation is imminent, and these topics are highly relevant. Additionally, new trade blocks and the restructuring of commercial law, along with the evolving nature of the rule of law amidst geopolitical divisions, will be discussed.”
The second key theme revolves around agroalimentation, sustainability, and international trade, particularly in light of the impacts of commercial and tariff policies on food supply chains.
Hernández Gómez further elaborated on the diverse agenda, mentioning that UIA has 43 commissions covering all legal specialties. Consequently, topics such as digital inheritance, digital payment systems’ security, artificial intelligence, and data border regulations will be addressed.
“We’ll have a stellar lineup of legal leaders from around the world, including representatives from the WTO (World Trade Organization), OMPI (World Intellectual Property Organization), and other international bodies, as UIA serves as a consultative organ within these institutions.”
Additional Congress Highlights
Alongside the congress, two declarations will be signed. The first addresses migrants’ rights, a global concern, while the second focuses on alternative dispute resolution methods.
“Our aim is to encourage lawyers to consider mediation and arbitration as peaceful alternatives to litigation,” explained Hernández, who also heads the organizing committee.
The congress is anticipated to attract over 700 legal professionals from more than 80 countries.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the 69th Congress of the International Union of Lawyers? It is a significant legal gathering hosted by Guadalajara, Jalisco, for the first time in Latin America since 1995. The event brings together legal professionals from 110 countries to discuss pressing global issues.
- What are the main topics of discussion? The congress will focus on investment disputes due to geopolitical reconfiguration and the T-MEC renegotiation. Additionally, agroalimentation, sustainability, and international trade will be discussed.
- Who will be attending the congress? Legal professionals from over 80 countries are expected to attend, including representatives from the WTO and OMPI.
- What other activities will take place during the congress? Two declarations on migrants’ rights and alternative dispute resolution methods will be signed.
