The Law Society of British Columbia joins the Federation of Law Societies of Canada in acknowledging the International Day of Democracy. Read the full statement from the Federation.
The statement from the Federation is an important message to all Canadians and reaffirms the essential connection between democracy, the rule of law and an independent legal profession and judiciary.
The rule of law is the principle that no one is above the law and the law applies equally to everyone, including those in positions of power. Everyone should have access to fair and impartial justice, including the ability to access independent legal counsel and be judged by impartial courts, free from political interference. The independence of the legal profession and judiciary is foundational to a free and democratic society.
In many parts of the world, these rights and freedoms are out of reach. In Canada, we must continue to uphold the rule of law and actively protect the rights of all Canadians.