Why does it work?
Governments are never anxious to see their human rights violations paraded before the international community. Having American and European lawyers put their weight behind the traditionally powerless and unrepresented also lends legitimacy to the position being taken and the result being sought. The mere fact of such representation immediately tends to level the playing field. And when top international law firms take on EDLC cases, foreign governments immediately recognize the tremendous resources and influence - legal, diplomatic, and political- that these firms can bring to bear.
Have the lawyers been successful in their efforts on behalf of environmental defenders?
We think the lawyers and law firms have been very successful, but you be the judge! See the extensive Cases section on this website. Perhaps the best judges of success are the clients themselves. The environmental defenders have been extremely satisfied with the work performed by the lawyers, and they have expressed that satisfaction to EDLC and to the lawyers themselves. EDLC would be delighted to share such testimonials with potential clients and interested lawyers, law firms, NGOs, and foundations.
Is the work really done entirely for free by the law firms?
Yes.
Why do lawyers work for free on EDLC cases?
Lawyers are justifiably proud of their long tradition of undertaking pro bono representation of clients who are otherwise unable to afford legal services. Law firms of all political stripes and sizes frequently render invaluable legal services without charge to such clients. The "Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge," launched in 1993 by the American Bar Association, raised the stakes by calling on big firms to contribute 3 to 5 percent of their billable hours to pro bono. This challenge has been accepted and met by large American law firms. There is a strong commitment to pro bono work in the United Kingdom, and many Latin American law firms have recently pledged to substantially increase their pro bono efforts.
Scores of lawyers have donated thousands of hours working on EDLC cases, often traveling to distant countries to help their clients. Several senior partners at the firms have told EDLC that the cases they have worked on have been among the most meaningful of their entire careers.
Is EDLC an environmental organization or a human rights organization?
Both, and here's why. The international community has recognized that harm to the environment often results in violations of the human rights of people affected by that harm. By the same token, governments that violate human rights typically fail to protect against harm to the environment, in large part because these governments' human rights violations prevent affected communities from effectively participating in environmental decision-making. EDLC believes that one problem cannot be solved without solving the other. The organizations that work on these problems in developing countries share this view.
Does EDLC charge for finding a law firm or for any other part of its work?
No.
How is EDLC funded?
EDLC is funded exclusively by foundation grants and individual donations.
How can I help?
Please see Get Involved.
Environmental defenders have been deeply appreciative of the outstanding work done by
the lawyers.