ABA Center for Global Programs Overview Brochure

Who We Are and What We

The rule of law is the foundation of any functional society, providing stability, predictability, and fairness so that all people can prosper and build a strong future. Founded in 1878, the American Bar Association’s (ABA) mission is to promote the rule of law, defend liberty, and pursue justice in the United States (US) and throughout the world. With a breadth of work that is unrivalled in both geography and approach, the ABA’s Center for Global Programs (CGP) carries out the international, externally funded work of the association—carrying out the fourth goal of the ABA: Advance the rule of law.

Our mission is to advance global justice, human rights, and sustainable development through three core initiatives: Center for Human Rights (CHR), Rule of Law Initiative (ROLI), and United Nations Representatives (UNR).

Across ABA CGP’s programs, we strengthen legal institutions, support justice professionals, and advance public understanding and respect for the law. Our legal experts help develop strong commercial law and arbitration systems that level the playing field to encourage foreign direct investments and promote economic development. We leverage our established ability to secure in-kind, pro-bono services to enable access to justice for the most vulnerable. In collaboration with local partners and international experts, our programs protect brave men and women who speak out against government abuse and corruption.

Our commitment to these initiatives reflects our unwavering belief in a world where human rights are upheld, the rule of law is steadfast, economic development becomes possible, and the global community thrives through unity and diplomacy. We have remained true to these values and goals for the last 35 years and will continue to do so in the future.

How We Work with Partners

Our work advances the ABA’s principles and expands its horizons, making a positive impact both within the legal community and beyond. Through our broad international programming, we collaborate with in-country partners, that include government ministries, judges, lawyers, bar associations, court administrators, legislatures, and civil society organizations. We design programs that are responsive to local needs and prioritize sustainable solutions to pressing rule of law challenges—upholding the mission of the ABA to defend liberty and pursue justice.

Utilizing educational opportunities, community outreach, collaborative partnerships, advocacy campaigns, publications, and research, our strategic programming furthers the ABA’s values and broadens its influence—positively affecting the legal community and society.

As a not-for-profit entity, we are externally funded by donors and foundations. Our operations are currently sustained through grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts. The work of ABA CGP enables us to serve our international partners and beneficiaries to strengthen the rule of law, protect justice defenders, and support human rights advocates around the world.