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The European Parliament overwhelmingly approved an emergency resolution on Thursday denouncing the violations of human rights in Algeria and the deterioration of freedoms.
The resolution, approved by an overwhelming majority of 669 votes in favor, 3 against and 22 abstentions, also calls for “the emergence of a democratic Algeria ruled by civilians.”
The resolution was put forward by the centrist political groups, namely “Renew Europe” and “Socialists and Democrats (S&D)”, as the crackdown on dissent intensified after months of anti-government demonstrations, known as Hirak, and when severe prison sentences were imposed on several journalists, including Khaled Drareni.
The resolution denounces the abuses against human rights in Algeria, as well as the amendments to the Algerian Penal Code and the new Constitution that kill freedom.
In their resolution, MEPs also call on the Algerian authorities to authorize international human rights organizations and UN agents in charge of the special procedures of the Human Rights Council to have access to Algerian territory, and demand the release of more than 90 Hirak prisoners of conscience.
The European Parliament “urges the Algerian authorities to allow a genuine political dialogue (which) does not criminalize fundamental freedoms, by adopting new legislation fully in line with international standards.”
The aim is to provide a reign of freedom to civil society, as “this is essential for the emergence of a democratic, civil-led Algeria,” insists the European Parliament resolution.
