Jaime Carey, a senior partner at Chile’s largest law firm, has officially assumed the presidency of the International Bar Association (IBA) for the 2025 calendar year, making him the first Chilean to hold this prestigious position in IBA’s nearly 80-year history.

Mr. Carey took up the role on January 1, succeeding Spain’s Almudena Arpón de Mendívil y Aldama.

With over four decades of active involvement in the IBA, Mr. Carey has been a prominent figure in the legal field, recognized consistently as a leading lawyer by international publications.

His extensive experience within the Association includes roles such as Co-Vice President, Chair of the Legal Practice Division, and various leadership positions focused on diversity and inclusion.

In a statement, Mr. Carey expressed his honor at being elected President, emphasizing his commitment to upholding the rule of law and enhancing the visibility of the IBA in Africa and Asia. He aims to foster collaboration and unity among legal professionals globally, recognizing their crucial role in addressing increasing divisions in today’s world.

In a historic arrangement, Mr. Carey will share the presidency with Claudio Visco of the Italian law firm Lipani, marking the first joint presidency in IBA history.

The friends, who have known each other since 1991, decided to divide their two-year term, with Mr. Carey serving as President for 2025 and Mr. Visco taking over in 2026.

Together, they plan to focus on key initiatives, including defending judicial independence, addressing the implications of artificial intelligence, promoting gender parity, and increasing accessibility for underrepresented groups in the legal profession.