Cracking Down on Liberties: Algeria’s Alarming Assault on Fundamental Freedoms

Algeria: Halt Assault on Fundamental Freedoms UN Expert’s Visit Amid Unrelenting Crackdown on Dissent

Summary

A coalition of 15 human rights groups is calling on Algerian authorities to end their attacks on civic space and allow independent organizations to operate without unreasonable restrictions. The United Nations special rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association is scheduled to visit Algeria from September 16 to 26. The Algerian government has intensified its crackdown on fundamental freedoms, including freedom of association and assembly, following the postponement of the special rapporteur’s visit nearly a year ago. The coalition urges the Algerian authorities to release all those imprisoned for their peaceful activism or expression, allow civil society organizations, trade unions, and political parties to operate freely, and repeal repressive laws used to crush dissent.

The Crackdown on Fundamental Freedoms

The Algerian government has been relentlessly cracking down on fundamental freedoms in the country, particularly targeting dissenting voices and pro-democracy activists. The authorities have dissolved Algeria‘s oldest human rights organization, the Algerian League for the Defense of Human Rights, as well as a prominent association, Youth Action Rally. Two major independent media outlets, Radio M and Maghreb Emergent, have also been shut down, further silencing dissenting voices.

Throughout the period following the June 2021 legislative elections and leading up to the third anniversary of the pro-democracy Hirak protest movement in February 2022, harassment, intimidation, and attacks on dissidents escalated. By the end of 2022, 280 activists, protesters, and government critics were imprisoned for their involvement in the Hirak movement and on charges relating to the peaceful exercise of their rights to freedom of expression, association, and assembly.

Algerian authorities have also enacted several new laws to stifle freedom of association and assembly. These include amendments to the penal code, presidential ordinances, and a law on trade unions. These laws criminalize actions aimed at changing the system of governance by unconstitutional means and tightly control trade union activities.

Call to Action

The visit of the United Nations special rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association provides a critical opportunity for the Algerian authorities to address the issues of crackdown on fundamental freedoms. The coalition of human rights groups urges the Algerian authorities to release all prisoners of conscience and cease all prosecutions of activists and human rights defenders based on the exercise of their legitimate rights. They also call for the guarantee of safety and integrity for civil society activists met during the special rapporteur’s visit.

Philosophical Discussion: Balancing Security and Freedom

The situation in Algeria raises important philosophical questions about the delicate balance between security and freedom. Governments often argue that restrictions on fundamental freedoms are necessary for maintaining national security and stability. However, it is crucial to recognize that unduly suppressing dissent and curbing freedom of association and assembly erodes the foundations of a truly democratic society.

Freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly are not merely abstract concepts; they are fundamental pillars of democracy and essential for the development of a thriving civil society. When these freedoms are restricted, it inhibits the ability of citizens to voice their concerns, participate in public life, and hold their government accountable. It also undermines the diversity of ideas, perspectives, and solutions necessary for a vibrant democracy.

While governments have a responsibility to ensure the safety and security of their citizens, they must also recognize that preserving fundamental freedoms is equally important for long-term stability. Suppressing dissent may provide a temporary illusion of order, but it ultimately fosters resentment, division, and a breakdown of trust between the government and its citizens.

Furthermore, it is vital for governments to prioritize dialogue and engagement with civil society organizations, trade unions, and political parties. These entities play a crucial role in channeling citizen voices, advocating for their rights, and contributing to policy discussions. In a democratic society, the state should welcome and encourage constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

Editorial: Upholding Human Rights Obligations

It is imperative for the Algerian authorities to seize the opportunity presented by the visit of the United Nations special rapporteur and demonstrate their commitment to upholding human rights obligations. Releasing all prisoners of conscience, allowing civil society organizations and political parties to operate freely, and repealing repressive laws are essential steps towards restoring and safeguarding fundamental freedoms in Algeria.

The international community must also play an active role in supporting human rights defenders and advocating for the protection of fundamental freedoms in Algeria. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals alike should condemn the crackdown on dissent and exert pressure on the Algerian authorities to address the concerns raised by the coalition of human rights groups.

It is through collective action and solidarity that we can create a world where fundamental freedoms are respected, protected, and enjoyed by all. Upholding these freedoms is not only a moral imperative but also a necessary condition for building just and inclusive societies.

Advice: Promoting Open Dialogue and Encouraging Reforms

To address the assault on fundamental freedoms in Algeria, several actions can be taken at both the national and international levels:

1. The Algerian authorities should immediately release all prisoners of conscience and drop charges against activists and human rights defenders who have been prosecuted for exercising their legitimate rights to freedom of expression, association, and assembly.
2. The Algerian government should repeal repressive laws that curtail fundamental freedoms, including laws that criminalize actions aimed at changing the system of governance by unconstitutional means.
3. International actors, including the United Nations and regional human rights bodies, should continue to closely monitor the situation in Algeria and exert pressure on the Algerian government to respect and protect fundamental freedoms.
4. The international community, including governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals, should publicly condemn the assault on fundamental freedoms in Algeria and show support for human rights defenders and civil society organizations in the country.
5. Civil society organizations and activists in Algeria should continue their peaceful advocacy for human rights and engage in open dialogue with the government to push for meaningful reforms.

By implementing these recommendations, Algeria can begin to rebuild a society where fundamental freedoms are respected, citizens can freely express their views, and human rights are protected. It is through dialogue, understanding, and collective efforts that lasting change can be achieved.

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