Shaouaa welcomes the European Parliament’s resolution calling for an end to violations and the release of prisoners of conscience in Algeria.
The 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, describing it as a crucial step in highlighting systematic violations targeting free voices in Algeria. It underscores the urgent need for effective measures to ensure the respect of fundamental rights and freedom of expression in the country.
Shoaa commends the European Parliament’s efforts to urge Algerian authorities to review laws that restrict freedoms, particularly Articles 87 bis, 95 bis, and 196 bis of the Algerian Penal Code, which have become tools for suppressing freedom of expression and targeting dissenting voices. The organization values the Parliament’s emphasis on the importance of the rule of law as a cornerstone for guaranteeing freedom of expression. It stresses that the renewal of the EU-Algeria partnership agreement must be conditional on tangible progress in human rights and that any future financial support from the EU should be tied to the Algerian authorities’ commitment to implementing necessary reforms to strengthen fundamental freedoms.
This resolution comes at a time when Algerian authorities reaffirm their commitment to dialogue and deny the existence of prisoners of conscience in the country. However, the reality on the ground proves otherwise, with more than 220 people still detained for their opinions, including 20 activists arrested since the beginning of 2025. Shoaa expresses deep concern over the continued arbitrary detentions, stating that depriving detainees of their fundamental rights constitutes a grave violation of international human rights standards and contradicts official rhetoric about dialogue and openness.
Shoaa calls on the international community to take decisive actions to support freedom of expression in Algeria, end repressive campaigns, and immediately and unconditionally release all prisoners of conscience. The organization also urges the strengthening of the role of Algerian civil society in defending human rights, upholding the principles of the rule of law, and ensuring judicial independence as essential pillars for achieving democracy.
The organization believes that collective international action has become urgent to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of Algerian citizens, particularly the right to freely participate in public life. It emphasizes that continued restrictions on these rights pose a blatant threat to democratic and pluralistic foundations, necessitating a firm international stance to ensure respect for Algerians’ 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 building of a society based on justice, dignity, and respect for fundamental rights.
