Egypt: Unionized lawyers launch nationwide indefinite strike Jan. 20.

Event

The Egyptian Bar Association launched an indefinite nationwide strike Jan. 20 to protest the imprisonment of six lawyers on assault charges. On Jan. 18, the criminal court of Marsa Matrouh sentenced the six lawyers to two years in prison following a brawl with court clerks earlier in January. The case will be considered for appeal Jan. 22. While organizers have not announced any protests, striking lawyers could hold demonstrations outside the Marsa Matrouh Court of Appeals or the union's headquarters in Cairo.

The labor action could result in business disruptions across Egypt. Increased security and localized transport disruptions are possible near any protests that materialize. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time to reach destinations near potential protest areas until the situation is resolved. Plan accordingly for possible business disruptions.