The United Nations has shed light on the grim reality of human rights violations in Algeria, revealing a troubling landscape for activists, journalists, and political opponents. Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights, states that despite warnings from international organisations, Algeria continues to flout fundamental rights, with repression against dissent showing no signs of abating under President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s governance.
The use of restrictive laws, particularly Article 87 bis of the Penal Code, equates activists and journalists with terrorists, facilitating their detention. This practice amplifies the government’s grip on dissent, restricting freedom of expression while detaining numerous individuals for engaging in peaceful activities deemed a threat to state security.
Lawlor’s report, spanning over 18 pages, highlights the deepening crisis faced by human rights defenders in Algeria, expressing disappointment that many remain unlawfully imprisoned and harassed. The government’s contradictory stance on human rights, juxtaposed with the closure of influential organisations like the Algerian League for the Defence of Human Rights, reveals a stark violation of the commitments proclaimed to the international community.
Significantly, Lawlor faced challenges connecting with human rights defenders due to fears of reprisals. The report also underscores the plight of women and the LGBTIQ+ community, particularly regarding employment issues, adding another layer to the human rights challenges in the country.
The freedom of the press in Algeria has dwindled, marked by increasing police brutality against journalists. Notable cases like Noureddine Tounsi, Kamira Nait Sid, and others exemplify the pervasive atmosphere of fear and coercion facing those who dare to speak out.
Despite the alarming situation, Mary Lawlor announced that the UN will persist in its investigations and advocacy efforts to resolve these ongoing human rights concerns, which have persisted for six years. Furthermore, the need for reforming Algeria’s Penal Code, particularly regarding the broad definition of terrorism, has been reiterated to align domestic laws with international human rights standards, ensuring protection for activists and journalists against arbitrary persecution.
Concerns have arisen over amendments to the security sector and counter-terrorism laws enacted in recent years, casting doubt on the legality and implications of such legislation. Lawlor’s message underscores the urgent need for change to safeguard the fundamental freedoms of the Algerian people.
The UN has highlighted severe human rights violations in Algeria, led by Mary Lawlor’s report, which shows ongoing repression of activists, journalists, and political opponents under Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s regime. Key issues include the misuse of anti-terror laws, arbitrary detentions, and the stifling of free speech. The report also raises concerns for women and the LGBTIQ+ community, urging reform to align Algerian laws with international standards.
In summary, the UN’s report unveils a grave scenario in Algeria, where human rights remain severely compromised under the current regime. The systematic repression of dissent, the misuse of anti-terror laws, and the detrimental effects on free speech and activism highlight the urgent necessity for reform. As the situation continues to unfold, the international focus will be critical in encouraging Algeria to uphold its commitment to human rights and democratic principles.
Original Source: www.atalayar.com
