It seems so self-evident that a lawyer is able to act for his clients independently, freely and without being under personal threat or fear for persecution and in a state of law this is self-evident. Unfortunately, however, this is not the case everywhere in the world. De Metz
Advocaten realises how privileged we are as Dutch lawyers and that colleagues elsewhere in the world are in need of our support. That is why we sponsor the independent and non-political Dutch foundation Laywers for Lawyers, L4L.  http://www.advocatenvooradvocaten.nl/nl/about-us/

In conformity with international law and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers and the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders of the United Nations, L4L has committed itself to enable lawyers to practice law in freedom and independence, always and everywhere, even when that does not suit the local
government, bar association or establishment.

L4L was granted Special Consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council in July 2013.