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Our Mission

At the Center of Global Programs, our mission is to advance global justice, human rights, and sustainable development through three core initiatives: Center for Human Rights, Rule of Law Initiative, and United Nations Representatives. Our commitment to these initiatives reflects our unwavering belief in a world where human rights are upheld, the rule of law is steadfast, and the global community thrives through unity and diplomacy.

What Is the Rule of Law?
ABA Rule of Law History
1878

American Bar Association formed and created the Committee on International Law.

1933

International and Comparative Law Section of the ABA established.

1948

Universal declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations.

1958

First ABA International “Law Day” to advance the rule of law in the world.

1963

Alongside the Peace Corps, the ABA launched the “Legal Peace Corps” in Africa.

1990

Central and Eastern European Law Initiative (CEELI) founded.

1991

First CEELI country office opened in Bulgaria.

1997

ABA granted legal observer status in the United Nations.

1998

ABA launched the Asia Law Initiative.

2000

ABA inaugurated the Africa Law Initiative and the Latin America and Caribbean Law Initiative.

2001

ABA formed the Center for Human Rights (CHR).

2002

CEELI assessed the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

2003

ABA started programmatic work in the Middle East and North Africa.

2005

International Rule of Law Symposium led to the creation of the World Justice Project.

2007

Regional Law Initiatives merged into the ABA Rule of Law Initiative (ROLI).

2018

The ABA Center for Global Programs created to include ROLI, CHR, and the ABA Representatives and Observers to the United Nations.

Ethics, Policies, and Safeguarding
Who We Are

Annual Report

The American Bar Association Center for Global Programs (ABA CGP) is pleased to share its 2023 Annual Report—covering a breadth of programmatic work from around the world between the ABA Center for Human Rights and the ABA Rule of Law Initiative. ABA CGP facilitated 84 programs in 62 countries, with a combined estimated funding of $59 million in international development grants. Learn more about our work advancing the rule of law and advocating for human rights.

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Who We Are

Center for Human Rights History

The circuitous tale of CHR’s evolution from one man’s idea, to a multi-faceted defender of human rights and a just rule of law around the world.

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Who We Are

ABA Impact Report 2023

This report, while not exhaustive, reveals the depth of expertise across our 3,000+ committees and groups. This vital work ranges from time-honored initiatives to cutting-edge projects calling for visionary leadership.

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