Introduction

In a step that reflects Egypt’s growing focus on improving access to justice, the Minister of Justice has issued Decree No. 4693 of 2025 (the “Decree”), establishing Labor Aid Offices in labor courts across the country. This marks a concrete initiative to support employees, especially those lacking legal assistance, in understanding their rights and navigating the litigation process.

With the recent enactment of Labor Law No. 14 of 2025, this Decree reinforces the government’s broader strategy to modernize the labor judiciary, promote fair trial guarantees, and reduce procedural burdens on vulnerable claimants.

Key Provisions of the Decree

Issued on 27 July 2025, published in August 31 2025, the Decree mandates the following:

• The creation of Labor Aid Offices inside the premises of labor courts.
• These offices will serve claimants, particularly employees, in filing labor cases and accessing procedural guidance.
• The implementation shall be carried out under the supervision and coordination of the Ministry of Justice, ensuring these offices operate in line with judicial administration and court logistics.

Purpose and Legal Significance

The creation of these offices reflects several policy and legal objectives:

• Access to Justice: Many labor claimants are unrepresented and unfamiliar with legal procedures. These offices aim to bridge that gap by offering procedural guidance and administrative help in preparing court documents.
• Efficiency and Clarity: Reducing incomplete or procedurally defective filings can ease the burden on labor court judges and shorten litigation timelines.
• Protection of Employee’s Rights: In direct implementation of Article 185 of Labor Law No. 14 of 2025, which mandates the establishment of legal aid offices within labor courts, the Decree operationalizes this legislative provision. It ensures that employees, especially those who cannot afford legal representation, can initiate individual labor claims with the procedural and administrative support needed to bring their case before the court. This step is a practical extension of Egypt’s commitment to fair access to justice under the new labor law framework.

Implications for Practice

For employee’s, these offices offer practical and immediate support in filing claims, especially those relating to wages, unfair dismissal, or end-of-service benefits. Employees will be able to access:

• Help in understanding what legal claims they can bring
• Guidance on necessary documentation and filing procedures
• General information on labor court structure and steps

For employers and legal counsel, the existence of Labor Aid Offices means:

• Claims filed by employees may now be more complete and procedurally correct
• There could be a rise in the number of filed cases as accessibility improves
• A need to respond more quickly and proactively to well-prepared claims

Comparative Insight

Egypt’s move mirrors international best practices, where many jurisdictions provide legal aid desks, self-help centers, or public legal support offices inside courthouses, especially in employment, family, and tenancy cases.

This is a judicial access initiative, not legal representation, but it can have real impact by reducing barriers for those who would otherwise struggle to file or pursue a claim.

Conclusion

The establishment of Labor Aid Offices in labor courts, as mandated by the Decree, is a positive and practical reform. It enhances procedural access, promotes fair litigation, and supports the wider aims of Egypt’s new labor law framework.

As these offices begin operation, legal practitioners, employers, and employees alike should prepare for a more inclusive and efficient labor litigation environment.