Mauritanian legal profession – Between Tradition and Modernity
Since 2019, the German Federal Bar and the national bar ONAM have built and maintained a close partnership: a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2020 laid the foundations for long-term cooperation – and since then, the German Federal Bar has been committed to supporting a strong, independent legal profession in Mauritania.
Foto: BRAK/KB
Mauritania, located in West Africa, has an independent legal system that combines French civil law with Islamic legal traditions. The Mauritanian Bar Association (Ordre National des Avocats de Mauritanie) plays a key role in upholding the principles of the rule of law and ensuring access to justice.
In order to become a lawyer one has to complete a law degree followed by a legal traineeship. Only after successfully completing this training phase one can be admitted to the national bar. The bar regulates the practice of the profession, monitors compliance with professional rules and promotes the continuous professional development of its members.
In the light of current global challenges such as safeguarding human rights and expanding international cooperation, the Mauritanian bar plays a key role. It is committed to engaging in dialogue with other jurisdictions and works to further develop legal ethics and professional standards.
The German Federal Bar has maintained an active partnership with the national Mauritanian bar for years. The aim is to strengthen the structures of the rule of law, facilitate professional exchange and promote the professionalisation of both interest groups.