Algeria Faces Renewed Pressure as Amnesty Calls for Release of Detained Journalists

May 13, 2026 – Algeria –

A recent Amnesty International report has intensified scrutiny of Algeria’s treatment of journalists, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of media workers detained under charges widely described by rights groups as politically motivated. The appeal comes amid growing international concern over what is viewed as an escalating crackdown on press freedom in the country.

According to Amnesty International, Algerian authorities have arbitrarily detained, prosecuted, or convicted multiple journalists in recent months, often under national security or terrorism-related charges linked to their reporting or public expression. The organization argues that these prosecutions represent a broader pattern of using the criminal justice system to silence independent media voices.

The report highlights several cases, including journalists held in pretrial detention for extended periods and others who have received prison sentences or suspended convictions. Amnesty notes that these individuals were targeted primarily for their journalistic work, social media activity, or communication with activists and other reporters. It also raises concerns about the use of vague legal provisions such as “spreading false information” or “undermining national unity,” which critics say are frequently applied to restrict legitimate expression.

Among the cases cited is that of Abdelwakil Blamm, who has been held in pretrial detention for over a year and faces terrorism-related charges ahead of trial. Amnesty argues that no credible evidence has been presented to support the allegations and that his prosecution is linked to his online reporting and engagement with political movements.

The organization also points to the detention of Hassan Bouras and the conviction of journalist Christophe Gleizes, describing them as part of a wider pattern of repression affecting both local and foreign reporters. These cases, Amnesty says, illustrate how reporting on sensitive political or social issues can result in severe legal consequences, including imprisonment and travel bans.

Press freedom advocates argue that these developments contrast sharply with official statements claiming improvements in media freedoms. They warn that the continued use of broad legal charges against journalists is creating a climate of fear that undermines independent reporting and public access to information.

Overall, the report frames the situation in Algeria as part of a sustained pattern of restrictions on journalism, with international organizations urging authorities to end arbitrary detentions and align legal practices with international human rights standards protecting freedom of expression and the press.

Reference –

Algeria: Authorities must release arbitrarily detained journalists and uphold press freedom

https://www.tolerance.ca/ArticleExt.aspx?ID=603256&L=en