Globalisation has added "dynamism" to society and so prompted countries to move towards a 'knowledge economy', according to Supreme Court Chief Justice Asoka de Silva; who was speaking at the inauguration of the recently concluded International Corporate Law Conference 2010 held in Colombo.
Further noting that the "world has become 'flat'", Mr. de Silva also indicated a "pressing need" for "continuing legal education for lawyers, law lecturers, judges and students". He also remarked that the legal professionals owed a debt to society, with citizens facing corresponding rights to legal representation; all of which would only be achieved if all lawyers were kept up to date on international developments. Additionally, he advised lawyers to keep up-to-date with technology and Corporate Social Responsibility trends to remain relevant, especially in the corporate world.
Mr. de Silva also noted the importance of science and technology in modern jurisprudence by stating: "The legal system today is not only a mediator but a consumer of science. Scientific evidence in judicial proceedings is now integral to the judicial process. Every law person including judges in the future has to become a critical consumer of scientific knowledge to be able to perform the emerging role of mediator, director, norm-setter and adjudicator between science and society".
Further, according to Mr. de Silva; "The status of international human rights is increasingly of concern not only to governments, but also to consumers and investors, and hence to businesses. Changes in information technology are making it virtually imposible for companies to cover up major accidents or instances of abuse, which means that the direct and indirect costs of such conduct will escalate for companies". |
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