Algeria is engaged in an extensive process of political, institutional and economic reforms, guided by the firm will to enlarge democratic spaces and to respond to the legitimate expectations of the Algerian people. This process will be completed this year by the adoption of a new constitution representing the culmination of a broad national consultation.

In this context, an important legislative arsenal has been gradually introduced with the aim of strengthening the rule of law, participatory democracy and good governance. In this regard, it’s worth to mention:

- The organic law on political parties that allowed the strengthening of political plurality and diversity.

- The organic law on the electoral system which subjects the electoral processes to the double control of justice and political parties,

- The Organic Law on the participation of women in elected bodies at national and local level.

- The organic law on information which, inter alia, enshrines the decriminalization of press offenses.

- the Revision of communal and wilaya codes with the objective of further decentralization, through the expansion of the powers of local elected officials in the management of local authorities.

To illustrate the changes induced by the introduction of this new legal framework, it is possible to mention the increased number of political parties represented in parliament, which rose from 23 to 27 during 2007-2011legislature andthe current legislature, 2012-2016. The number of women elected to the National Assembly rose from 31 in 2007 to 147 in 2012, representing 31% of the total seats.

Regarding human rights, Algeria was elected in 2013 as a member of the UN Human Rights Council for a three years’ term (2014 - 2016), reflecting the international recognition of Algeria’s sustained efforts for the promotion and protection of human rights and the steps taken towards Democracy and Good Governance.

As member of this council, Algeria is committed to actively contribute to the global effort aiming to promote the universal character of human rights, and to workwithin this open space in promoting international cooperation for the promotion of human rights.

In line with its commitments on human rights, taken in the framework of the Universal Periodic Review mechanism, Algeria has made significant progress. These achievements are part of a broader process above mentioned aiming to strengthengood governance and participatory democracy, modernize justice, and equalize opportunities between men and women.

The Algerian Government has launched in 2014 a new five-year development program which will allow Algeria to address some deficits, especially in social infrastructure, industry, agriculture and services and to offer to the different social groups the necessary conditions for their development: job opportunities, better conditions of access to housing, education, health, etc.

저작권자 © The Korea Post 무단전재 및 재배포 금지