Anglo-Dutch Exchange

The Anglo-Dutch exchange is a programme that's been run by our Young Barristers’ Committee and the Young Bars of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague since 1966 to build on the jurisdictions' two common principles: improving access to justice and upholding the rule of law.

It’s a great opportunity for barristers early on in their careers to meet and learn from fellow legal practitioners from a different jurisdiction.

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ADE Day 3 Royal Courts of Justice 2023 v2

Every year, we each take it in turns to host the delegation of young lawyers from the other’s juristiction, giving participants an opportunity to visit and learn about practising in another country. This year we are hosting a group of lawyers from the Netherlands from Tuesday 1 to Friday 4 July.

During the visits, we trade knowledge, learning, culture and contacts to strengthen our practice and build new relationships.

In 2024, a group of 16 lawyers went to the Netherlands where we visited the Supreme Court, the Dutch Commercial Court, law firms and the City Hall of Rotterdam. Delegates had a fantastic time visiting the three cities that make up the exchange and learning about a new jurisdiction. On top of our packed schedule we also had some down time – we played a game of padel, watched The Netherlands play England in the Euros, enjoyed a gala dinner and much more. We are looking forward to welcoming our Dutch counterparts to London this year.

Some attendees are hosted by a lawyer in the jurisdiction they are visiting, meaning that they benefit from a truly immersive experience. More details on how you can help host this summer’s visitors from the Netherlands will be announced next month.

If you’d like to find out other ways you can get involved in this year’s visit or have any questions, please email our Young Barristers’ Committee at [email protected]

You can hear more about barristers’ experiences of the exchange by reading their blogs below.