Maghreb Edition
Cumulative cases of infection of the Covid-19 virus as of 10 June 2020 in Algeria reached 10,484, an increase of 117 from the previous day. The cumulative death toll is 724. Below are two interesting charts.
Morocco is facing its largest wave of unrest in years, with mass protests erupting across major cities demanding better hospitals, schools, and an end to corruption.
The recent detention and subsequent release of author and publisher Salima Melizi have unsettled Algeria’s literary community, bringing to light the continued pressures facing writers and intellectuals. The case, which did not begin with mainstream media coverage but instead spread through social networks and private discussion, has fueled debate over censorship, freedom of expression, and the increasing sense of caution within Algeria’s cultural scene.
The United Nations Security Council has approved a resolution supporting Morocco’s autonomy proposal for Western Sahara as the most feasible basis for future negotiations. The decision, initiated by the United States, passed with eleven members in favor, three abstentions from Russia, China, and Pakistan, and no participation from Algeria. The resolution renews the mandate of the UN mission (MINURSO) and calls for all parties to engage in talks without preconditions, though key disagreements on self-determination and final status remain.
Algeria’s parliament is reviewing a bill that would let the state revoke citizenship from nationals who commit acts deemed hostile to the country while living abroad. Critics warn the measure weaponizes national belonging and fuels distrust between the government and millions of Algerians living overseas, while lawmakers insist it will only affect severe threats to state security.
