Amid ongoing tensions surrounding freedom of expression in Algeria, the recent decision by an Algerian appeals court to uphold the imprisonment of Ali Mammeri, a prominent trade unionist, has drawn criticism from international human rights organizations. The court’s verdict not only keeps Mammeri incarcerated but also slightly reduces his initial 15-year sentence to 10 years, a point seemingly lost in broader condemnation by groups such as Amnesty International. Mammeri, who serves as the president of the National Union of Civil Servants in the Field of Culture and Arts (SNFC), was originally arrested in March 2025 under charges of “glorification of terrorist acts” and “dissemination of classified information.” These charges were primarily based on his social media activities, particularly Facebook posts supporting other activists and his engagement with the International Labour Organization over issues related to workers’ rights.
Mammeri’s prosecution has highlighted alleged misuse of Algeria’s anti-terrorism laws, particularly Article 87 of the Penal Code. Critics argue that these laws, described as “overly broad and vague” by the United Nations Human Rights Committee, have been utilized to silence dissent. Notably, following his arrest, Mammeri was reportedly held without charge and subjected to torture to extract a confession, according to allegations that remain unaddressed by Algerian authorities. His family, who were initially kept in the dark about his whereabouts, have filed a formal complaint regarding the alleged mistreatment, yet it remains unacknowledged by the authorities.
Diana Eltahawy, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International, condemned the ruling as a clear affront to peaceful dissent and independent union activity in the country. According to Eltahawy, this decision sends an alarming signal to other trade unionists across Algeria, potentially stifling similar voices advocating for rights and reforms. Furthermore, the incident underscores Algeria’s obligations under international treaties, such as the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, to uphold the human rights standards it has pledged to maintain as a signatory nation.
This development has sparked widespread criticism from human rights entities concerned over Algeria’s use of legislation to target dissenting voices. Observers continue to urge Algerian authorities to ensure compliance with international human rights standards, emphasizing the potential implications such actions could have on the broader rights landscape in the region. For more detailed information, see the full coverage here.