Strengthening International Cooperation: WHLS in Gdańsk, Poland

Strengthening International Cooperation: WHLS in Gdańsk, Poland

Our International Committee had a fantastic trip to Gdansk to sign a twinning agreement with the Pomeranian Bar Association. Advocates from Gdansk visited London last year to meet some of our members and discuss cooperation between our committees and it was our turn to visit Gdansk.

Coral Hill, Chair; Sara Chandler and Alex Kowalska Vice Chairs; and Julia Splavska from the International Commitee, together with Gillian Fielen from the International Laison Group, visited the Pomeranian Bar Association, Poland.

On 11 April, a Polish-English legal conference titled “Contemporary Law: Challenges and Opportunities | Between Civil Law and Common Law” took place at the historic Dom Adwokata in Gdańsk.

The event was chaired by Alex Kowalska and Tomasz Snarski, both members of the International Committee of the Pomeranian Bar Association.

Professor Chandler spoke on the role of the expert witness in court proceedings, while Coral Hill shared valuable reflections on leadership in the legal field. The conference also allowed for a meaningful exchange of views on the challenges and realities of legal practice in Poland and England and Wales.

A highlight of the day was the ceremonial signing of a cooperation and friendship Memorandum between the Westminster & Holborn Law Society and the Pomeranian Bar Association. The agreement was signed by Sylwia Grzybowska, Vice-Dean of the Pomeranian Bar, and Coral Hill, on behalf of our Society. We were joined by the Chair of the International Committee Dariusz Strzelecki and the Chair of the Education Committee Małgorzata Głódkowska.

Our members visited the European Solidarity Centre and strolled down Długa Street full of beautiful colorful facades that showcase the city's rich architectural heritage. Our Polish colleague Aldona Brandt showed us some local art galleries. No visit to Poland would be complete without trying its local cuisine. Members dined at a cozy restaurant and enjoyed Polish pierogi, cutlets and herrings!

Westminster & Holborn Law Society remains committed to fostering strong international relationships and supporting the global legal community. ■

Alex Kowalska Julia Splavska

WHLS International Committee