The Algerian National People's Assembly has adopted a new law that introduces the death penalty for those convicted of arson and child abduction. The law, which was passed on October 3, 2026, aims to strengthen the country's penal code and provide a tougher stance on crimes that threaten national security and stability. The law was voted on in a plenary session presided over by Khalida Boufedèche, the president of the APN, and was attended by Minister of Relations with the Parliament Nadjiba Djilali.
The new law specifically targets those who commit arson on forests and fields, destroy public and private property, and engage in child abduction. Those convicted of these crimes will face the death penalty, with no possibility of reduced sentences due to mitigating circumstances. The law also takes a hard stance on crimes committed with the intention of harming national security, public order, and economic and environmental stability.
The law aims to protect children from serious crimes, with the death penalty also applying to those who attempt to abduct children using any means. The penalty will be aggravated if the abduction is accompanied by torture, sexual assault, or other forms of abuse. This move comes in response to a recent surge in such crimes in Algeria.
Justice Minister Lotfi Boudjemaâ defended the new law, stating that it represents an appropriate legal response to these serious crimes. He emphasized that the law aims to support efforts by the country's high authorities to strengthen legal mechanisms that consolidate the rule of law and protect society from all forms of crime.
Boudjemaâ also noted that the law targets various forms of serious crime, including arson, which has recently targeted the national economy and property, with some acts allegedly committed at the instigation of foreign parties seeking to destabilize the country.
The minister stressed that the introduction of the death penalty for these crimes is necessary given the evolution of methods used to commit them. He also highlighted the importance of protecting children from serious crimes, with the new law providing a stronger deterrent against child abduction.
The adoption of this law reflects the Algerian government's commitment to tackling serious crimes and protecting its citizens. The law is expected to come into effect soon, with authorities vowing to enforce it strictly to maintain national security and stability.
Key points
- The Algerian National People's Assembly has adopted a new law introducing the death penalty for arson and child abduction.
- The law aims to strengthen the country's penal code and provide a tougher stance on crimes that threaten national security and stability.
- The death penalty will apply to those who commit arson, destroy public and private property, and engage in child abduction, with no possibility of reduced sentences.
