North Africa
Since 2018, the German Federal Bar (BRAK) has been continuously expanding its cooperation with bar associations in Northern Africa, with increasing contacts to the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa. The unhindered practice of lawyers is always at the centre of these relations.
Regular events are held in cooperation with all bar associations in North Africa, from Mauritania to Egypt. Therefore, the German Federal Bar is in close and regular exchange with colleagues in the region to discuss current challenges. Supporting the legal professions at Europe's doorstep is and remains an important part of the international activities of the German Federal Bar. It contributes to strengthening the rule of law in the respective countries, and facilitates contact between lawyers and their foreign colleagues in an increasingly interconnecting world.
Partners in the North African region
Tunisia
Tunis
Foto: John Wreford, shutterstock.com
Since the department for North Africa was established, the German Federal Bar has maintained close relations with Tunisian lawyers, in particular with the national bar association ONAT (Ordre National des Avocats de Tunisie). This is reflected in numerous joint events and annual participation in the ‘Opening of the Legal Year’ in Tunis.
Mauritania
Nouakchott
Foto: Homo Cosmicos, shutterstock.com
The first contact between the German Federal Bar and the Mauritanian Bar Association (Ordre National des Avocats Mauritanian, ONAM) was established in 2019. The following year, both bar associations signed a memorandum of understanding, thereby laying a sustainable foundation for future cooperation. Since then, the German Federal Bar has been committed to strengthening the independence of Mauritanian lawyers.
Algeria
Algier
Foto: Hak im, shutterstock.com
In Algeria, the German Federal Bar cooperates with the national bar association Union Nationale des Ordres des Avocats (UNOA) and regional bar associations.
The Algerian bar association has
40,000 members, making it the largest
in the Maghreb states.
The German Federal Bar also works with organisations for young lawyers.
Morocco
Marrakesch
Foto: Olena Zn, shutterstock.com
In Morocco, the German Federal Bar closely cooperates with the national bar association ABAM (Association des barreaux du Maroc), a relationship that was strengthened by a memorandum of understanding in 2025. Another important part is promoting access to justice in rural areas by working together with regional bar associations.
Libya
Tripolis
Foto: Hussein Eddeb, shutterstock.com
The cooperation partner of the German Federal Bar in Libya is the country's National Bar Association. Due to the political situation in Libya, events are also frequently held in cooperation with neighbouring countries, such as Tunisia.