Algeria-Overview

In spite of progressive constitutional changes adopted by the Algerian parliament in early 2016, Algerian civil society operates in an environment highly restrictive to human rights. The State imposes severe legal and de facto restrictions on freedoms of association, expression, and peaceful assembly. NGOs face the risk of arbitrary dissolution, and human rights groups have been denied re-registration when it is sought, as required under a 2012 law. All peaceful protests held without prior State approval are prohibited by law, and protestors face the prospect of heavy criminal sanctions including imprisonment. Associations and journalists exercising their right to freedom of expression face the prospect of arrest and prosecution.