International law firm White & Case LLP was recently honored in the 10th anniversary edition of Innovative Lawyers for its collaborative endeavors with the Auschwitz Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (AIPR). Produced annually by the Financial Times, the Innovative Lawyers publication serves as a special report that highlights firms and individuals working to change and improve law or how it is practiced. An electronic version of the publication is available on the Financial Times website.
For its efforts alongside the Auschwitz Institute, White & Case received a “Standout” rating in the Social Responsibility category, the highest level of commendation, with a near-perfect score. The report explains that:
…for more than 10 years White & Case has worked with New York-based nonprofit organisation the Auschwitz Institute for Peace and Reconciliation on a programme that helps governments monitor and halt the processes that can lead to mass atrocities, and trains government, police and military officials in genocide prevention.
Speaking about the partnership forged between White & Case and the Auschwitz Institute, White & Case partner and AIPR Board Member, Mr. Owen Pell told the Financial Times:
We’re doing the right thing. But, also, atrocity prevention is another form of legal risk management.
The prevention of genocide and mass atrocities remains a crucial element of corporate social responsibility. Actions taken by business leaders have influenced the shape and magnitude of genocide throughout history. Conscientious corporate decision-making, including civic and stakeholder engagement, can work to mitigate the risk of atrocities that are devastating to populations and economies alike.