Introduction
Since the popular uprising of 22 February 2019 in Algeria, known as the Hirak, the Algerian authorities have intensified their repression against peaceful activists and civil society. Under the pretext of counter-terrorism, the regime has put in place a freedom-destroying legal arsenal, notably through Article 87 bis of the Penal Code, in order to criminalise any form of dissent. This article explores how the Algerian authorities use anti-terrorist laws to repress critical voices and stifle democratic demands.
The regime’s repressive strategy
The Algerian authorities, confronted with a peaceful and determined popular movement, chose repression rather than dialogue. By amending the Penal Code in 2021, the authorities introduced Article 87 bis, which broadens the definition of terrorism in a vague and imprecise manner. This law makes it possible to charge peaceful activists, journalists and human rights defenders under false accusations of terrorism. Hundreds of people have been arrested, held in pre-trial detention and sentenced to heavy prison terms, often without tangible evidence.
The consequences for civil society
Activists and members of civil society are the main targets of this repression. Emblematic figures of the Hirak, such as Fodil Boumala and Hassan Bouras, have been arrested and tried on the basis of Article 87 bis. The lawyers who defend these activists are also persecuted, as shown by the case of Maître Abderraouf Arslan, arrested for having defended a client accused of terrorism. These practices are intended to establish a climate of fear and to discourage any form of protest.
Conclusion
The instrumentalisation of the fight against terrorism in Algeria reveals a deliberate strategy by the regime to repress dissenting voices and maintain its grip on power. The international community must condemn these human rights violations and demand reforms to guarantee fundamental freedoms in Algeria.