Expression

Algeria’s 2012 Law on Information places substantial restrictions on the ability of associations to publish and disseminate information. The law specifically restricts freedom of expression and access to information relating to vague concepts including national identity, sovereignty, the economy, and national security. In June 2016, two staff members of a private television station working on a satirical news show were arrested, charged, and detained. Human rights defender Slimane Bouhafs of Movement for Self-Determination of Kabylia (MAK) is currently serving a three year prison sentence, on charges related to expressing his beliefs in Christianity. Several other human rights defenders have been arrested, detained and imprisoned. Journalists have been also arrested and charged, on grounds including “insulting state institutions” and “attacks intended to overthrow the regime”.