SHOAA organization welcomes the European Parliament’s resolution, adopted on January 23, 2025, which calls for an end to human rights violations in Algeria and the immediate and unconditional release of all prisoners of conscience. The resolution condemns the escalating repression against activists, writers, journalists, and human rights defenders, considering it a crucial step in highlighting the systematic violations targeting free voices in Algeria. The resolution underscores the urgent need for immediate and effective measures to ensure respect for fundamental rights and freedom of expression in the country.
SHOAA commends the efforts of the European Parliament in urging the Algerian authorities to review repressive laws that restrict freedoms, particularly Articles 87 bis, 95 bis, and 196 bis of the Algerian Penal Code, which have become tools to suppress freedom of expression and target dissenting voices. The organization appreciates the European Parliament’s emphasis on the importance of the rule of law as a cornerstone for guaranteeing freedom of expression, stressing that the renewal of the EU-Algeria partnership agreement must be contingent on tangible progress in the field of human rights. Furthermore, it calls for any future financial support from the European Union to be linked to Algeria’s commitment to implementing the necessary reforms to strengthen fundamental freedoms.
This resolution comes at a time when the Algerian authorities claim their commitment to dialogue and deny the existence of prisoners of conscience in the country. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story, with more than 220 individuals still detained for their opinions, including 20 activists arrested since the beginning of 2025. SHOAA expresses deep concern over the continued arbitrary arrests, affirming that depriving detainees of their basic rights constitutes a grave violation of international human rights standards and contradicts official statements about dialogue and openness.
SHOAA calls on the international community to take decisive action to support freedom of expression in Algeria by exerting diplomatic pressure on the Algerian government to halt repression campaigns and release all prisoners of conscience immediately and unconditionally. The organization also urges the strengthening of civil society in Algeria to safeguard human rights and reinforce the principles of the rule of law and judicial independence as fundamental pillars of democracy.
SHOAA believes that urgent collective international action is needed to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of Algerian citizens, particularly their right to freely participate in public life. The organization stresses that continued restrictions on these rights pose a severe threat to democratic and pluralistic foundations, necessitating a firm international stance to ensure the protection of Algerians’ fundamental rights.
SHOAA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending human rights in Algeria, promoting the values of freedom and democracy, and ensuring that all Algerians enjoy their legitimate rights without restrictions or threats, contributing to the development of a society based on justice, dignity, and respect for fundamental rights.
