Rule of law has a new forum.

• Author: Pachoyski, Slavi
• Position: NGOWatch - Non-governmental ogranzations - Brief Article

The United Nations benefits tremendously from the expertise and dedication of thousands of non-governmental organizations interested in its work. It is not so often though that top-flight lawyers from all over the world form a not-for-profit organization and offer to get involved in the everyday life of the Organization. The recently established Rule of Law Forum, which has its headquarters in New York, pledges to serve the diplomatic community.

Its first public event-a luncheon-discussion at the United Nations on 22 May 2001-gathered more than 75 ambassadors and high-level diplomats, including The Legal Counsel and Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs of the United Nations Hans Corell. New York City's mayor was represented by Linda Gras, Deputy Commissioner for the UN and International Business.

The invited speaker was Kenneth Starr, whose address was "The Rule of Law in Building Democratic Societies." The depth of his legal knowledge, his vivid mind and his readiness to engage himself in an open dialogue impressed the distinguished audience. Samuel Ericsson, President of the Board of the Rule of Law Forum, also took part in the discussion.

It is possible that the Forum will in the future become a recognized centre for debates that hold the interest of the diplomatic community. Its leadership is made up of individuals...