SLAPPs and the Judiciary: Protecting Public Participation and the Rule of Law

Steven Thiru examines how courts can protect public participation and the integrity of the legal process from SLAPPs by deploying existing procedural and substantive powers to scrutinise potentially abusive proceedings, prevent litigation from being used to silence legitimate public participation, and safeguard civic space, and considers the case for stronger anti-SLAPP protections across the Commonwealth.

Strengthening Commonwealth Ties: CLA Meets the Commonwealth Secretary-General

 From the Commonwealth Secretariat to the legal profession across 56 nations, strong partnerships are essential to advancing the Commonwealth Charter. As a proud accredited Commonwealth organisation, the CLA was delighted to meet with Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey to discuss shared priorities and the collective pursuit of the rule of law across the Commonwealth.

The Countdown to Kigali Is On – Register Today

 Beyond the conference, experience one of Africa's most captivating destinations—from breathtaking volcanoes and ancient rainforests to unforgettable wildlife encounters, exceptional hospitality and some of the world's finest coffee.

Discover why Kigali is the perfect setting for three days of thought leadership, collaboration and meaningful professional connections. 

CHOGM 2026: Taking the Rule of Law to the Commonwealth's Top Table

As Commonwealth leaders gather in Antigua and Barbuda this November, the CLA will be on the ground championing the rule of law, democratic governance and the independence of the legal profession at the highest levels of the Commonwealth. Discover why CHOGM 2026 matters for lawyers across the Commonwealth – and how the CLA is shaping the conversation through the Forums, side events and direct engagement with decision-makers.

From Paradise Visa to Productive Migration: Is Mauritius Rewriting the Commonwealth Playbook?

With a new Golden Visa, tougher investment thresholds and a bold push to attract global talent, Mauritius is reshaping the relationship between migration and economic growth—but can it strike the right balance between opportunity, mobility and the rule of law? Read more to discover why lawyers, policymakers and investors across the Commonwealth should be paying attention.

Record-Breaking Turnout for CLA's Biggest PNG CLE Yet

More than 600 legal professionals joined in person and online as the CLA returned to Port Moresby for the most successful Continuing Legal Education programme to date. From anti-money laundering and legal ethics to class actions, wellbeing and the future of compulsory legal education in Papua New Guinea, discover the key discussions, insights and impact from a landmark day for the legal profession. 

✍️ Have Your Say on the Future of ADR

From the Jaipur Declaration 2026 to the growing influence of the Singapore Convention on Mediation, ADR is evolving rapidly across the Commonwealth. The CLA ADR Committee is inviting practitioners, mediators, judges, academics and emerging lawyers to contribute articles for its forthcoming ADR & Mediation Newsletter.

Share your insights, showcase developments from your jurisdiction and help shape the conversation. Read the full call for articles and submission guidelines here.

Deadline: 29 October 2026

Final Call: Shape the Future of CLA Professional Development

Time is running out to have your say. Our CPD Needs Assessment Survey closes on 30 September, and this is your final opportunity to help shape the practical, accessible and high-quality training opportunities that the CLA delivers across the Commonwealth. Take just five minutes to influence the future of professional development – complete the survey today. 

⏳Final Chance to Save: Early Bird Rates End 21 September

This is your last opportunity to register for the Silver Jubilee 25th Commonwealth Law Conference at a discounted rate. After 21 September 2026, all discounted registration rates will close and standard rates will apply right through to CLC27 in Darwin—so act now to secure your place and save before the window closes.

Call for Nominations: Commonwealth Law Conference Rule of Law Award 2027

Nominate an individual or organisation whose work is making a real difference in defending justice, strengthening institutions and advancing the rule of law across the Commonwealth. Don't miss this opportunity to ensure exceptional leadership, courage and impact receive the international recognition they deserve.

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