Advocates for International Development (A4ID)
Yasmin Batliwala, MBE, Chief Executive
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Tell us about your organisation and projects
Advocates for International Development (A4ID) stands at the forefront of harnessing the power of law to drive global change. As a pioneering international charity, A4ID mobilises world-class legal expertise - spanning global law firms, multinational corporations, and leading barristers - and channels it directly to where it is needed most: development organisations, civil society groups, and governments across the globe.
We know that the fight against poverty and inequality is too often hindered by a critical gap - access to legal knowledge and support. A4ID exists to close that gap. We work hand in hand with our development partners to identify their legal priorities, and then strategically connect them with our network of expert lawyers who offer their time and skills pro bono.
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Operating across more than 100 jurisdictions, A4ID makes the law work for sustainable development. Our model is unique: we do not simply provide legal advice - we build legal capacity, strengthen systems, and support the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
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At A4ID, we believe in the transformative power of the legal profession. By unlocking its potential, we help shape a fairer, more just world - where legal barriers no longer stand in the way of opportunity, dignity, or human rights.
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How can in-house lawyers get involved in A4ID’s mission?
In-house lawyers have a powerful role to play in A4ID’s work to advance justice and drive sustainable development. We actively welcome the expertise of in-house legal teams, recognising the immense value they bring to our global network.
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At A4ID, we take a tailored approach. We begin by engaging directly with in-house teams to understand their areas of expertise and existing relationships with panel firms. Where those firms are already part of our legal partner network, we help build bridges - creating opportunities for collaboration that allow in-house counsel to contribute meaningfully while working alongside their trusted external advisers. Importantly, this model ensures that all legal work remains covered by the law firm’s professional indemnity insurance.
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But the opportunities go beyond traditional legal advice. We also deliver high-impact projects that are particularly well-suited to in-house teams, such as legal research, policy reviews, and capacity-building training for NGOs and community-based organisations. These engagements allow in-house lawyers to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges, supporting the people and organisations on the front lines of development.
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Whether working independently or in partnership with law firms, in-house lawyers can help shape the legal frameworks that underpin sustainable progress. Through A4ID, they can apply their skills where they matter most.
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Is there a fee involved?
To sustain our vital work, we ask all our legal partners to make an annual donation. This contribution ensures we can continue connecting expert legal support with the communities and organisations that need it most.
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We are committed to making this partnership accessible. Donations are scaled according to the size and capacity of each legal team, meaning smaller in-house teams are never expected to contribute at the same level as large law firms. This flexible approach allows in-house teams to engage meaningfully and contribute at a level that reflects their resources—while still playing a crucial role in advancing access to justice and the rule of law globally. ​
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Is there a contact person/mailbox people can reach out to for more information?
Reach out to our pro bono team.
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