Maghreb Edition

Algerian government targets its citizens abroad, bans those who call for democratic reformF

Posted On 9 May 2022

Number of times this article was read : 473

Summary: The Algerian authorities have begun to process of banning from entering Algeria its nationals who reside abroad and who have been pro-democracy activists. The ban was criticized by rights groups Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, calling the decision as “arbitrary.” Three Algerian-Canadians have already been prevented from entering Algeria between January and April 2022. One of them managed to enter Algeria but was not permitted to leave for three months. The Algerian authorities move is to stage a persistent attack on its nationals who have been calling for democractic change. Rights groups say Lazhar Zouaimia, Hadjira Belkacem and a third unamed person were “interrogated about their links to the Hirak.” Amnesty’s deputy Middle East and North Africa director Amna Guellali said “All arbitrary travel bans should immediately be lifted.”

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The North Africa Journal is a leading English-language publication focused on North Africa. The Journal covers primarily the Maghreb region and expands its general coverage to the Sahel, Egypt, and beyond, when events in those regions affect the broader North Africa geography. The Journal does not have any affiliation with any institution and has been independent since its founding in 1996. Our position is to always bring our best analysis of events affecting the region, and remain as neutral as humanly possible. Our coverage is not limited to one single topic, but ranges from economic and political affairs, to security, defense, social and environmental issues. We rely on our full staff analysts and editors to bring you best-in-class analysis. We also work with sister company MEA Risk LLC, to leverage the presence on the ground of a solid network of contributors and experts. Information on MEA Risk can be found at www.MEA-Risk.com.