The UN Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders, Mary Lawlor, has voiced profound criticism of Algeria for its persistent clampdown on activists. She emphasizes that the nation continues to brand peaceful human rights efforts as criminal, creating an oppressive atmosphere for defenders of these essential rights. Her remarks came after her visit in late 2023, during which she had hoped to witness progress.
Lawlor pointedly condemned the arbitrary arrests and intimidation faced by activists who are often charged with nebulous allegations like ‘harming state security.’ She spotlighted the plight of Merzoug Touati, an activist detained multiple times since 2024. Additionally, she addressed the recent arrest of three human rights attorneys and a young whistleblower, underlining the severity of the repression.
The rapporteur elaborated on the troubling situation of lawyer Toufik Belala, who has been interrogated on multiple occasions since April 2024. He was notably accused of disseminating false information that allegedly jeopardizes state security. Lawlor’s observations reflect a chilling reality where legal vulnerabilities serve as tools of oppression.
During her time in Algeria, Lawlor passionately appealed for the unhindered operation of human rights defenders. She urged the government to liberate political prisoners, alongside journalists and environmental advocates, pushing for a more open civil society. Her call resonated with the hope for a vibrant atmosphere free from fear.
In stark contrast, Algerian officials have consistently denied claims of human rights abuses. They assert that there are no unconstitutional practices in place, arguing that legal protections exist for civil society activists. Nonetheless, the widening gap between official declarations and ground realities remains a cause for concern in international human rights circles.
Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur, denounces Algeria’s oppression of activists, highlighting recent disproportionate arrests and vague charges against them. She called for the freedom of human rights defenders and political prisoners during her visit in late 2023, contrasting these concerns with Algeria’s firm denial of any human rights violations, which presents a troubling picture of the nation’s treatment of civil society.
Mary Lawlor’s critique of Algeria reveals a disturbing trend of repression against human rights advocates in the country. The arbitrary detention of activists and the vague charges leveled against them paint a grim picture of civil liberties. As Lawlor urges a reevaluation of these practices, Algeria continues to maintain its stance against accusations of human rights violations, indicating a contentious struggle between activism and state security.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
