New York State Bar Association Joins With the European Association of Lawyers in New Partnership
4.28.2025
Prompted by the growing need for international cooperation, the New York State Bar Association is entering into a partnership with the European Association of Lawyers.
“This is a moment to strengthen transatlantic ties between our two associations and to stand up for the rule of law, which must be protected at home and abroad,” said Domenick Napoletano, president of the New York State Bar Association. “Together, we will enhance the professional growth and influence of lawyers both in the United States and Europe.”
The partnership, which is formalized in a Memorandum of Understanding, provides a framework for the members of the two associations to share information on issues such as trade, environmental justice, and human rights. At the virtual signing ceremony Monday, Napoletano reiterated the association’s support for freedom and an end to the war in Ukraine.
“We are keeping up the fight and look forward to working with you on issues like this and will keep the pressure on the World Court to seek justice for victims of war.”
David Asatiani, president of the European association, said the agreement opens doors for the exchange of knowledge, comparative legal research and professional development, rooted in a common vision.
“In an era of legal challenges that transcend national boundaries, our cooperation becomes increasingly vital. By uniting our efforts, we aim to enhance legal education and training through workshops and exchange programs,” he said. “We have the opportunity to broaden skills and promote ethical standards for lawyers.”
European association immediate past president, Maria Slazak, encouraged both groups to work together on human rights and the protection of fundamental freedoms for all people.
“We know a lot about your work here in Europe and we hope our members will join your New York State Bar Association International Section,” she said. “Our association has opened up the east, outside the EU, and is now present in central Asian countries like Turkmenistan. We are working for the promotion of the rule of law and the protection of lawyers and our help is very much needed there.”
Lawyers from both groups are encouraged to attend the New York State Bar Association’s Annual Global Conference in Hamburg, Germany, in October. The two-day conference will cover several topics including trade and investment, regulation of digital assets, maritime and environmental law.
“It is a time to meet each other, teach each other and promote joint efforts supporting the rule of law,” said Jay Safer, a member of the NYSBA International Section.
Leaders of both groups thanked Giogi Tshekhani, chair of the New York State Bar Association’s chapter in the country of Georgia, and also a member of the European Association, for coordinating the agreement. The Memorandum of Understanding is the 38th agreement the New York State Bar Association has signed with bar associations across the globe. The New York State Bar Association has 5,000 members who reside and practice outside of the United States and 65 chapters abroad.
About the European Association of Lawyers
Founded in 1986, the European Association of Lawyers (Association Européenne des Avocats) promotes the European vision of the legal profession. It supports its members through legal education, scientific and cultural exchange, and advocacy for professional independence and justice. Its committees span key legal areas including technology, mediation, and human rights, offering a dynamic platform for international collaboration. Like NYSBA, AEA-EAL is deeply committed to the protection of the rule of law and the promotion of global legal cooperation.
About the New York State Bar Association
The New York State Bar Association is the largest voluntary state bar association in the nation. Since 1876, NYSBA has helped shape the development of law, educated and informed the legal profession and the public, and championed the rights of New Yorkers through advocacy and guidance in our communities.
