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Interview
Jaime Carey, IBA President, Previews the Key Themes of the Annual Conference in Toronto
In the context of the upcoming International Bar Association (IBA) Annual Conference in Toronto , Latin Counsel spoke with Jaime Carey , President of the organization, about the cutting-edge agenda, global challenges, and the essential role of the legal profession in defending the rule of law.
In the context of the upcoming International Bar Association (IBA) Annual Conference in Toronto, Latin Counsel spoke with Jaime Carey, President of the organization, about the cutting-edge agenda, global challenges, and the essential role of the legal profession in defending the rule of law.
Carey details the event’s emphasis on diversity, technological innovation, and high-profile guests. These include Jeff Skiles, the retired airline pilot best known as the First Officer of US Airways Flight 1549 who successfully assisted Captain "Sully" Sullenberger in the emergency water landing on the Hudson River (the "Miracle on the Hudson"), and Rosalie Abella, the distinguished Canadian jurist who was the first Jewish woman and first refugee to be appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, who will serve as the keynote speaker.
Latin Counsel: In the context of the 2025 IBA Annual Conference in Toronto, what new elements can we expect, both in the agenda and in the event’s organization, and how is the preparation for this global meeting progressing?
Jaime Carey: The Toronto Conference is designed to be the great meeting point for lawyers from all over the world. In addition to the traditional breadth of legal topics, we are incorporating cutting-edge issues such as the regulation of artificial intelligence, climate litigation, and the impact of disinformation on democracies. Preparation is well underway, and we have worked to ensure that every attendee finds a valuable experience of learning, debate, and networking. Latin Counsel: As President of the IBA, what is the main message or goal you seek to convey and achieve at the Toronto Global Conference, and how does this event differ from previous editions? Jaime Carey: My main message is that the legal profession has the responsibility to protect the Rule of Law at a time of high global uncertainty and polarization. Toronto will be different because we have placed a particular emphasis on the diversity of voices, technological innovation, and intergenerational dialogue, making it a more representative event with a clearer vision for the future. Latin Counsel: Who will be giving the opening speech, and what central message is expected from their address? Jaime Carey: I will have the honor of offering an inaugural message, and I believe the most important thing is to encourage the strengthening of trust in institutions, independence in the exercise of our profession, and the role we have in building a more just and sustainable future. The distinguished Canadian jurist and human rights advocate, Rosalie Abella, will offer the keynote at the event. Abella was the first Jewish woman and the first refugee to be appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada (2004–2021): Rosalie was born in a displaced persons camp in Germany, as her family were Holocaust survivors. Latin Counsel: Could you give us a preview of some of the guests or featured speakers who will be participating in the event? Jaime Carey: The conference will feature the participation of prominent lawyers, academics, and global leaders from various sectors. There will be representation from all regions of the world, which will guarantee a plural and inclusive perspective on the challenges we face as a profession. Regarding the program, I believe we have a very interesting agenda, which mixes learning, challenges, and also inspiration. I would highlight, for example, the participation of
, the retired airline pilot and First Officer of US Airways Flight 1549—internationally known for assisting Captain "Sully" Sullenberger in the successful emergency water landing on the Hudson River in 2009. He will share his experience on leadership and decision-making under pressure. This session will offer a firsthand account of the incident where both engines failed after a bird strike, forcing the historic emergency ditching. I will have the privilege of moderating this panel.
I would also specially mention the
Global Women Litigators Breakfast
, which will take place on November 3, and is an instance that underscores our commitment to diversity and female leadership. The profession can only be representative and legitimate if it reflects the plurality of the societies it serves.
Latin Counsel: In a context of growing geopolitical volatility, what do you consider to be the most critical role of the IBA in defending the Rule of Law and promoting justice globally?
Jaime Carey:
The IBA has the mission to remind everyone that the Rule of Law is non-negotiable. Our role is to offer support to lawyers and legal institutions that are threatened, and to maintain an independent voice that promotes justice and human rights under any circumstances.
Latin Counsel: The rise of artificial intelligence is redefining legal practice. How is the IBA preparing the profession for the ethical and regulatory challenges of AI?
Jaime Carey:
We are developing guides, forums, and collaborative spaces that allow lawyers to understand the risks and opportunities of AI. The priority is that its implementation be ethical, transparent, and respectful of fundamental rights, so that it strengthens justice instead of weakening it.
Latin Counsel: Sustainability and ESG criteria are a priority for companies. How is the legal sector adapting to this demand, and what role does the lawyer play in the transition toward a more responsible economy?
Jaime Carey:
The lawyer plays a fundamental role as an articulator between norms, business, and society. From the IBA, we promote standards and training that enable the profession to accompany clients in their transition toward more sustainable models, anticipating risks and building long-term value.
Latin Counsel: Beyond access to justice, what are the most significant barriers facing young and next-generation lawyers globally, and how can the IBA help overcome them?
Jaime Carey:
The main barriers are a lack of visibility, limited opportunities for international networking, and the need for new digital and multicultural skills. The IBA promotes mentorship programs, global networks, and young leadership spaces that specifically seek to break down those barriers.
Latin Counsel: The theme of diversity and inclusion has gained traction in the profession. What concrete actions is the IBA promoting to ensure that legal leadership is more representative of society?
Jaime Carey:
We are implementing policies that promote greater diversity in our committees, panels, and leadership positions. Furthermore, we incentivize firms and associations to adopt inclusive practices, because we know that diversity is not only an ethical value but also a competitive advantage for the profession, though it must be promoted much more actively and effectively. Likewise, we have conducted various studies in several countries to highlight different situations of inequality. As a society, we are still indebted in these matters.
Latin Counsel: Cybersecurity has become a transversal risk for firms and clients. What is the main threat facing legal businesses today regarding digital security, and what recommendations do you offer to mitigate it?
Jaime Carey:
The biggest threat is the vulnerability in the protection of confidential data. Firms must invest in constant training, clear protocols, and international cooperation to prevent and respond to incidents. On the other hand, cybersecurity is a strategic matter for the profession.
Latin Counsel: The IBA connects lawyers from different jurisdictions. How important is the exchange of knowledge between legal systems to address common challenges like transnational crime and corruption?
Jaime Carey:
It is vital. No country can face these challenges in isolation. The IBA acts as a bridge to share experiences, jurisprudence, and best practices that allow us to advance global standards on issues that concern all societies, such as the fight against organized crime and corruption.
Latin Counsel: How has the business of law changed in the last decade, and what advice would you give to firm leaders seeking to ensure the relevance and profitability of their practices in the future?
Jaime Carey:
The business has become more global, technological, and competitive. My advice is to bet on innovation, diverse talent, and international networks. The firms that know how to combine technical excellence with strategic vision and capacity for adaptation will be the ones that prevail. On the other hand, it is important to understand our clients’ business and ensure that our recommendations and advice are aligned with their commercial objectives. This way, we can contribute not only to regulatory and legal compliance but also help build an effective bridge for doing good business that has a positive impact on society.
Latin Counsel: Considering the differences between markets, how can the IBA help smaller firms in Latin America compete and remain relevant in the global legal arena?
Jaime Carey:
The IBA offers access to international networks, visibility, and training that allow smaller firms to position themselves globally. These tools are a leveler that helps democratize opportunities in the profession.
Latin Counsel: In the field of legal education, what skills and knowledge, beyond the traditional ones, should be priorities for future lawyers in today’s world?
Jaime Carey:
In addition to technical mastery, future lawyers must develop digital competencies, language skills—primarily English—intercultural communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to work in multidisciplinary environments. The future demands well-rounded professionals.
Latin Counsel: Access to justice is a fundamental right. What is the IBA’s role in promoting pro bono work and social responsibility among its members internationally?
Jaime Carey:
The IBA actively promotes pro bono work, providing guides, models, and spaces for recognition to those who practice it. Our message is that social responsibility and the promotion of access to justice are not optional: they are part of the essence of the profession and its legitimacy before society.
Latin Counsel: What concrete challenges and opportunities do you see in cooperation between the public and private sectors to strengthen integrity and the fight against corruption globally?
Jaime Carey:
The challenge is to generate trust and clear regulatory frameworks. The opportunity lies in effective collaboration: when governments, businesses, and lawyers work together, more robust systems for prevention and sanctioning corruption can be designed.
Latin Counsel: Looking ahead, what do you consider will be the most disruptive change in legal practice during the next decade, and how is the IBA preparing for this new scenario?
Jaime Carey:
The most disruptive change will be the convergence between technology and globalization. The IBA is already preparing the profession with debate spaces, reference documents, and training programs that allow us to anticipate this new scenario.
Latin Counsel: On a personal note, what legacy would you like to leave as President of the International Bar Association?
Jaime Carey:
I would like to leave an IBA that is more open, diverse, and connected to all regions, especially Asia, Africa, and Latin America. An organization that leads the conversation about the future of law and continues to be an ethical and professional reference for lawyers worldwide.
