More than 40 law students from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, and Russia gathered in Tashkent, Uzbekistan August 13-16, 2025 for a regional workshop on legal ethics organized by PILnet in partnership with White & Case LLP and the Tashkent State University of Law.
Over four days, students explored how ethical principles guide the legal profession in practice. Through interactive exercises, case studies, and panel discussions, participants engaged with topics such as confidentiality, conflicts of interest, professional independence, anti-corruption, pro bono, and business and human rights.
The sessions were led by a diverse group of practitioners, academics, and ethics experts from across Central Asia, Europe, and the U.S. The PILnet Eurasia Program Officer contributed by presenting on sessions dedicated to Business and Human Rights and Pro Bono, and moderating a panel on In-house Perspectives on Legal and Business Ethics.
“At White & Case, we believe that legal ethics is not just an obligatory course—it’s a commitment to building trust in the profession, protecting the rule of law, and serving clients with integrity,” said Jennifer Paradise, Partner and General Counsel at White & Case. “We designed the curriculum to incorporate real-world scenarios so that students can more easily apply their training to manage complex ethical situations that they will face throughout their careers.”
The workshop focused on practical, hands-on learning, encouraging students to work through real-world dilemmas and reflect on the role of ethical leadership in today’s legal practice.
“This workshop provided a unique opportunity for our students and their peers in the region to engage directly with international experts, said Islambek Rustambekov, Acting Rector of TSUL. “Strengthening legal ethics is essential to the development of an independent and principled legal profession in Uzbekistan and beyond.”