05/08/2020 Algeria (International Christian Concern) – The Algerian Presidency has released a draft of the proposed constitution, after receiving much criticism for delaying it’s publication because of COVID-19. In the weeks prior to this release, a prominent member of the constitutional committee had resigned saying that the “draft is essentially part of the continuity of the current constitution.” The constitutional process was started after lengthy protests where Algerians asked for a new government, a democracy, rather than military rule. At this stage, the constitutional draft can still have amendments added or removed. It will later be scheduled for a popular referendum.

In terms of religious freedom, the constitutional draft does not contain many revisions. It contains the protection of the practice of worship without discrimination, free exercise of assembly, and the freedom to create associations. Many Christians were concerned that these rights would be removed from the draft constitution, as they were not part of the civil society groups consulted for input.

However, Algeria’s government has a strong record of codifying laws which run contradictory to constitutional protections. Ordinance 06-03 discriminates against Christians by creating a pathway used to justify church closures. This ordinance also prohibits Christians from assembling in their homes for worship. The 2012 Law on Associations created a situation in which the government refuses to renew the license of the Evangelical Protestant Association (EPA), creating a type of double jeopardy which further is used to justify church closures. Nearly half of all EPA churches have been closed since 2017, thirteen of which remain shuttered.

Algeria’s draft constitution must protect religious freedom, just as it has done in the years prior. But this is only the first step. Algeria’s government must follow its own constitution. If this draft is to have any weight in the future, then Algeria must bring its codified laws up to the standards created by the constitution. Algerians have demanded a better future and government which protects their human rights.

For interviews, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: [email protected].