Mission of SHOAA for Human Rights
Founded in 2020 and based in London, SHOAA for Human Rights is an independent non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting, protecting, and advancing human rights and democratic values in Algeria.
We work to build a society where justice, freedom, and equality are guaranteed for all, and where civic space is protected and vibrant. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities to defend their rights, strengthen the rule of law, and foster a culture of accountability and participation.
SHOAA acts as a bridge between local realities and international human rights mechanisms. We document violations, support human rights defenders, provide legal and digital protection, and advocate for systemic change that upholds international standards.
Our work is guided by the principles of independence, solidarity, inclusivity, integrity, and justice. Through partnership and collaboration, we aim to amplify Algerian voices, enhance the resilience of civil society, and contribute to building a democratic and rights-respecting Algeria.
Our Approach
We pursue our mission through three interconnected pillars:
providing legal and technical assistance to human rights defenders and activists at risk.
documenting violations, conducting evidence-based analysis, and engaging regional and international mechanisms to influence policies and public awareness.
strengthening civil society through capacity-building, digital security training, and support for civic engagement and democratic participation.
Our actions are grounded in cooperation with local actors, regional networks, and global partners who share our vision of human dignity, equality, and freedom.
SHOAA for Human Rights – Strategic Framework 2025–2030
Executive Summary
Since its founding in 2020, SHOAA for Human Rights has established itself as a key actor in defending and advancing human rights in Algeria. As a London-based NGO with a growing network of activists, lawyers, and experts, SHOAA works to empower civil society, promote justice, and protect civic and digital freedoms.
This 2025–2030 Strategic Framework outlines our vision for the next five years. It reflects our commitment to deepening impact, expanding partnerships, and contributing to a democratic, inclusive, and rights-respecting Algeria.
The strategy focuses on four strategic priorities: Access to Justice, Digital Rights, Accountability, and Institutional Strengthening.
Context and Challenges
Over the past decade, Algeria has witnessed a severe contraction of civic space. Independent associations have been dissolved or denied registration, journalists and activists face criminalization, and digital surveillance is widespread. At the same time, Algerian civil society continues to demonstrate resilience, creativity, and courage. SHOAA operates within this challenging environment to document violations, provide legal and digital protection, and bring international attention to patterns of repression. This strategy seeks to consolidate achievements, scale impact, and ensure sustainability.
Vision:
An Algeria where every individual enjoys their fundamental rights and freedoms in a democratic and accountable state governed by the rule of law.
Mission:
SHOAA for Human Rights promotes, protects, and advances human rights and democratic values in Algeria through documentation, legal assistance, advocacy, and empowerment.
Core Values
- Independence
- Free from political or partisan influence.
- Integrity
- Upholding honesty, professionalism, and transparency.
- Solidarity
- Standing with those facing repression and injustice.
- Inclusivity
- Promoting gender equality and diversity.
- Accountability
- Responsible to beneficiaries, partners, and donors.
Strategic Priorities 2025–2030
Priority 1 – Access to Justice and Protection of Human Rights Defenders
Strengthen legal aid and defense mechanisms; support lawyers’ networks; monitor cases of harassment; advocate for legal reforms.
Priority 2 – Digital Rights and Civic Freedoms
Promote digital literacy, privacy, and security; document online censorship; build partnerships with digital-rights organizations; advocate for open internet policies.
Priority 3 – Accountability and Transitional Justice
Advocate for recognition and redress for victims; document historical injustices; engage international mechanisms; foster dialogue on truth and reconciliation.
Priority 4 – Institutional Strengthening and Sustainability
Enhance governance, diversify funding, strengthen capacities, and ensure gender-balanced leadership for long-term sustainability.
Implementation and Monitoring
The strategy will be implemented through annual work plans and mid-term reviews. SHOAA will establish measurable indicators under each strategic priority and report progress to its partners and donors. A Monitoring and Evaluation Framework will assess quantitative and qualitative results, ensuring transparency and participatory accountability.
Partnerships and Collaboration
SHOAA’s strength lies in cooperation. We will continue to partner with local actors, regional networks, and international institutions to rais Algerian voices and contribute to regional and global efforts to defend human rights and civic space.
Looking Ahead
Through this strategy, SHOAA reaffirms its belief that democracy and human rights are inseparable. Over the next five years, we will deepen engagement with civil society, strengthen legal protection for defenders, and promote a culture of dignity and freedom.