February 9, 2018
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LIFE AFTER REVOLUTION
One aspect of the changing market for legal services relates to relations between government and civil society groups and lawyers, showing. Egypt is not without its problems, particularly for lawyers practicing in Egypt.
Some Egyptian lawyers have been denied the rights to a fair trial and freedom of expression and assembly because of broad security legislation passed since 2013, as well as facing travel bans and prosecution for carrying out their professional duties, in support of human rights.
On 24 January 2018, the International Day of the Endangered Lawyer, which focuses on the rule of law issues in the legal profession internationally, was dedicated to Egypt. The American Bar Association (ABA) and both the English and Welsh legal representative bodies, as well as a consortium of international lawyers, spoke out, calling for the role of lawyers and the rule of law to be respected in the country.
In a statement released local time, ABA president Hillary Bass said that lawyers should be able “to work without intimidation, harassment or improper interference and to ensure that they are adequately safeguarded when their security is threatened”, citing United Nations principles justifying such protection. Those taking comfort from Franke’s appointment will hope that Egypt addresses those concerns, as well as promoting its ability to resolve those of investors.
https://www.africanlawbusiness.com/news/7941-scc-honorary-chairman-appointed-to-crcica-board