On 3 July 2025, the International Union of Judicial Officers (UIHJ) took part, alongside numerous French and international institutions, in the 10th Steering Committee “Influence Through Law,” held at the Ministerial Conference Centre of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs in Paris.
Officially opened by Ms. Anne-Marie Descôtes, Secretary General of the Ministry, this strategic meeting aimed to strengthen France’s presence in international organisations through an ambitious legal diplomacy strategy. Discussions focused on the legal influence mechanisms, including the deployment of international technical experts, the consolidation of magistrates’ positions abroad, and the promotion of the continental law system, in which France plays a leading role.
Among the key speakers, Mr. Diego Colas, Director of Legal Affairs at the MEAE, highlighted the mechanisms for mobilising French legal talent at the international level. Mr. Sébastien Sider, from the Ministry of Justice, emphasised the importance of enhancing the visibility of magistrates within European institutions and the role of liaison magistrates.
The attractiveness of continental law and the French legal framework was a central theme of the discussions. Mr. Didier Jean, Head of the Attractiveness Mission, presented work on legal arguments promoting a predictable, stable, and flexible legal system tailored to foreign investors. Other speakers highlighted recent reforms in arbitration and mediation, as well as the importance of maintaining the French language within international bodies.
The meeting also provided a comprehensive overview of international judicial cooperation initiatives, with particular attention to French expertise in intellectual property, commercial registers, and legal training. The French National School for the Judiciary (ENM), acclaimed as a model of excellence, presented its efforts in international cooperation and adaptation to digital challenges.
In closing, several concrete actions were proposed: development of digital content, integration of artificial intelligence in legal training, support for the mobility of young legal professionals, and strengthening of cooperation networks.
Through its active participation, the UIHJ reaffirmed its commitment to promoting continental law and supporting legal professionals on the international stage.
