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Right to Freedom of Opinion Vital as Algeria Embarks on Political Change

An independent United Nations human rights expert today called on Algeria to guarantee the right to freedom of opinion and expression as part of its ongoing political reforms.

Mr. Frank La Rue, the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression, noted that journalists still face a number of challenges in carrying out their work.

"I would like to reiterate the importance of fully guaranteeing the right of all individuals to freedom of opinion and expression, and access to information, which are essential in a truly democratic society."- Frank La Rue, UN expert

Mr. La Rue stated that the visit has been very timely given the growing demand of the people for more openness and the full guarantee of their right to freedom of expression, as well as the expressed desire of the Government to embark on a new process of political change, including constitutional reforms.

Algeria has come a long way since the 1990s, during which 100 journalists were killed, he noted in a news release, adding that journalists no longer fear for their lives while performing their work.

Mr. La Rue urged the Government to urgently decriminalize defamation, which he said has "a chilling effect" on the right to freedom of expression by generating an attitude of self-censorship among journalists.

Source: United Nations