In September 2026, the Board of Trustees of the World Law Foundation (WLF) met in Rome to review its strategic initiatives, strengthen international legal cooperation and move forward with the projects ahead.

Chaired by Javier Cremades, President of the World Jurist Association (WJA) and of the World Law Foundation, the meeting focused on strengthening democratic stability, promoting judicial independence and building momentum toward the 30th edition of the World Law Congress, which will take place in Tirana, Albania, on 3-5 May 2027. The Congress will be co-hosted by the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, and the Ministry of Justice, led by Minister Toni Gogu.

Widely regarded as the leading international forum of the legal community, the World Law Congress brings together constitutional judges, academics and world leaders to address the most pressing legal challenges of our time and to champion democratic values worldwide.

Audience with President Sergio Mattarella

As part of the official program in Rome, members of the Board were received in audience by the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, at the Palazzo del Quirinale. During the meeting, the WJA announced its decision to confer its highest honor, the World Peace & Liberty Award, upon President Mattarella in recognition of his lifelong commitment, as both jurist and statesman, to safeguarding democratic institutions and the Rule of Law. The award will be presented at the Closing Ceremony of the World Law Congress in Tirana on 5 May 2027.