BMLA Week 2026

On 21 January 2026, the Society of Asian Lawyers (“SAL”) was honoured to join the inaugural Bilateral and Multilateral Law Association Week 2026 (“BMLA Week”) celebrations at the Law Society. SAL was represented by its President, Muntech Kaur and Secretary, Asia Razaq‑Miah.

BMLA Week, held from 19 – 23 January 2026, marked a significant moment in recognising collaboration, partnership and engagement across the legal profession. The evening opened with a welcome from the Law Society’s President, Mark Evans, who expressed his appreciation for the vital work undertaken by bilateral and multilateral organisations.

Curator of BMLA Week, Sheye‑Seye Aina, shared her vision and passion for the initiative, emphasising that these organisations already hold an important seat at the table and continue to make meaningful contributions toward positive change.

There are currently around 40 Bilateral and Multilateral Law Associations operating in the UK. SAL, established more than 30 years ago as a not‑for‑profit organisation, was among the earliest. Decades later, SAL’s mission remains unwavering: to promote and support Asian legal professionals within the profession and wider community and to advocate on issues that matter to its members.

In recent years, the need for additional organisations has grown, with several new associations emerging as recently as January 2026 and more expected. These groups play a crucial role in amplifying the voices and addressing the needs of Black, Asian, and Ethnic Minority legal communities.

BMLA Week, the brainchild of Sheye‑Seye Aina, was a remarkable achievement, bringing together a diverse range of organisations and celebrating the talent, dedication, and passion that drive their work in service of their members.

And this is only the beginning. With 2026 marking its first year, BMLA Week promises to grow in scale and impact in the years ahead.

Reflecting on the event, SAL’s President Muntech Kaur said:

“Congratulations to Seye for her significant work and passion in bringing BMLA Week to life. SAL looks forward to seeing the continued impact of BMLA Week and to working collaboratively with organisations and stakeholders that share our objectives. Together, we are stronger and our voices louder.”

Anyone wishing to support SAL in its work is invited to contact Asia Razaq‑Miah at secretary@societyofasianlawyers.co.uk