This session introduces a Resilient Criminal Legal Aid & Pro Bono Ecosystem Framework, a structured and replicable approach, to strengthening criminal defense systems across diverse jurisdictions, including under-resourced, high-sensitivity, and conflict-affected contexts.

The session explores how integrated pillars such as early access to counsel, structured pro bono engagement, client legal empowerment, secure and efficient case management systems, holistic referral networks, lawyer protection and wellbeing, trainings and strategies for security and safety for lawyers working in sensitive legal environments, continuous legal advocacy skill development, and strategic stakeholder engagement, work together to sustain ethical, effective, and accountable criminal defense services.  

Special attention will be given to risk mitigation strategies for defense lawyers operating in high-risk or politically sensitive environments, where lawyers may face harassment, surveillance, professional retaliation, or criminalization through charges such as obstruction of justice or other related offenses. Through an interactive design lab and guided reflection, participants will develop practical strategies to build or reform pro bono criminal defense ecosystems suited to their own institutional realities. Participants will leave with a transferable framework that enhances sustainability, coordination, professional resilience, and safety for lawyers delivering pro bono legal services across varying legal environments.

Kyi Suu

Country Manager, International Bridges to Justice (IBJ)

Febio Nesta

Head of Pro Bono Department, Indonesian Advocates Association (PERADI)