Pilnet

Engaging the entire legal profession as a global network with offices in new york, hong kong, and budapest, pilnet engages private sector and public interest legal professionals worldwide both to meet the specific needs of civil society organizations and communities and to collaborate with civil society in broader efforts to build more just, equitable, and sustainable societies. Acting as a strategic intermediary, pilnet works with civil society organizations around the world to define their legal needs and obtain free, tailored legal assistance from highly qualified lawyers in its network. Pilnet's clearinghouse is a global pro bono legal service matchmaking platform that connects civil society organizations (csos) with law firms willing to provide free legal assistance. In 2024, pilnet assisted more than 210 organizations by engaging over 125 law firms and solo practitioners to provide direct legal services valued at approximately $8.3 million. Pilnet also holds strategic convenings to engage and mobilize its networks in support of civil society. At its annual global forum in 2024, which was held in bangkok, pilnet convened more than 440 civil society and pro bono professionals from 70 countries to forge alliances and develop strategies for using the law to protect civil society organizations and the communities they serve.- pilnet also brought law students to the global forum, to expose them to public interest law on a global scale. The public interest lawyering course, offered online, provided training and fostered collaboration among participants interested in human rights and public interest law.- regional convenings, such as the european convening and pro bono roundtables in hong kong and singapore, addressed specific regional challenges and opportunities.- pilnet also co-organized events like the argentinian pro bono week, further amplifying its impact.- pilnet was deeply invested in nurturing and inspiring the next generation of legal professionals through various initiatives. The public interest law mentorship program in hong kong successfully completed its third round, connecting students with experienced public interest lawyers.