An Algerian court has sentenced 12 individuals to three years in prison for expressing solidarity with detainees and advocating for freedom of expression. The court, located in the city of Ghilizan, handed down the sentences on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. The defendants, including activists and the sister of human rights defender Yacine Khaled, were found guilty of "praising terrorist acts" under Article 87 of the Algerian Penal Code.
The defendants, who were identified by the human rights organization "Rayon de Droits" as Rachedi Ibrahim, Doubi Bounoua Sid Ahmed, and others, were accused of expressing solidarity with detainees and advocating for freedom of expression. The charges were based on their peaceful expressions of opinion and solidarity with those detained. The organization has condemned the use of anti-terrorism laws to prosecute individuals for exercising their right to free speech.
The sentences were widely criticized by human rights organizations, who argue that the use of anti-terrorism laws to prosecute individuals for exercising their right to free speech is a serious infringement on fundamental freedoms. The organization "Rayon de Droits" has called for the release of the defendants and urged the authorities to respect the rights of defense and the principles of a fair trial.
The case has sparked concerns about the erosion of civil liberties in Algeria, where the government has been accused of cracking down on dissent and opposition. The use of anti-terrorism laws to prosecute individuals for peaceful expression has been a contentious issue in the country, with many arguing that it is used to silence critics and stifle debate.
The defendants, who include activists, writers, and intellectuals, were arrested and charged with "praising terrorist acts" under Article 87 of the Algerian Penal Code. The article has been criticized for its broad and ambiguous language, which allows for the prosecution of individuals for expressing opinions that are deemed critical of the government.
The sister of human rights defender Yacine Khaled, Asia Khaled, was among those sentenced to prison. Her brother, Yacine Khaled, has been a vocal advocate for human rights in Algeria and has been critical of the government's human rights record. The sentencing of his sister has been seen as a reprisal for his activism.
The case has sparked international concern, with human rights organizations calling for the release of the defendants and an end to the use of anti-terrorism laws to prosecute individuals for exercising their right to free speech.
Key points
- The Algerian court sentenced 12 individuals to three years in prison for expressing solidarity with detainees and advocating for freedom of expression.
- The use of anti-terrorism laws to prosecute individuals for peaceful expression has been criticized by human rights organizations.
- The case has sparked concerns about the erosion of civil liberties in Algeria.
