Bangkok, Media Defence, a legal support organization, is calling for applications from women lawyers for its upcoming litigation surgery on freedom of expression, focusing on participants from South and Southeast Asia. The initiative is designed to enhance legal skills related to digital rights and to create a network of women lawyers equipped to tackle issues around freedom of expression.

According to Pak NGOs, the program invites women lawyers who are currently handling or are interested in taking on cases that deal with violations of freedom of expression. The selected participants will join a legal network that provides opportunities for engagement both regionally and internationally. This network aims to support women journalists and bloggers by developing a skilled cadre of legal professionals adept at navigating national and international legal landscapes.

The surgery will include a range of activities designed to train lawyers in handling cases involving digital rights and online media challenges such as defamation, cybercrimes legislation, and privacy violations. Additionally, it will facilitate connections with international legal mechanisms and civil society initiatives aimed at protecting freedom of expression.

Eligibility for the program is limited to women lawyers residing in specific countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including India, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Thailand, among others. Applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in English and have a keen interest or background in human rights law, particularly related to freedom of expression.

The application deadline for this program is July 8, 2024. More details, including how to apply, can be found on the Media Defence website.