ICC Note: Last fall was characterized by the Algerian authorities suddenly closing a number of churches under the guise of having failed “safety inspections.” However, the authorities have begun reopening some of these churches, with the most recent reopening being in El Ayaida. While on paper the Algerian government has created a pathway to legalization, in reality Algerian churches are given no opportunities for recognition. The reopening of these churches corresponds to pressure by Western governments who have asked that the authorities recognize religious freedom.     

06/28/2018 Algeria (Middle East Concern) –  Algerian Christians rejoice in the re-opening of a church in El Ayaida (35km east of Oran) which had been closed in January 2018. However, there is still need for prayer in the face of continued government pressure, with several churches remaining closed.

The church was reopened on Wednesday 20 June. As with two other recently reopened churches in this governorate, the order allowing the re-opening does not confer official registration under the 2006 ordinance governing non-Muslim worship (which requires churches to obtain permission to operate). All three churches are members of the Protestant Church of Algeria (l’Église Protestante d’Algérie).

In May, two churches in the governorates of Tizi Ouzou and Bejaia were closed and have yet to be permitted to reopen.

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For interviews with Claire Evans, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org.