Najwa Rahm

Algiers — What is happening today raises fundamental questions about the state of public freedoms and the future of human rights work in Algeria, especially in light of the restrictions on civil spaces. Between the decisions of banning and closure, the voice of the families of the disappeared remains present, driven by an unwavering insistence on uncovering the truth and achieving justice.

Nasira Dutour, the human rights activist and president of the Association of the Disappeared, expressed her deep gratitude to everyone who showed solidarity with her following the widespread support that came after she was banned from entering Algeria and the sealing of her association's office in the capital — a step that sparked broad controversy in human rights circles both inside and outside the country.

This solidarity came through a campaign led by activists on social media platforms, where two prominent hashtags — "I am Nasira" and "The truth cannot be hidden" — were circulated, in a clear expression of rejection of these measures and a commitment to the values of truth and justice.

In this context, Nasira Dutour considered that this outpouring of support reflects a collective awareness of the importance of defending human rights, saying: "Today we are walking a very difficult path. This struggle has always been full of pressure, but the situation today has become tragic and catastrophic after the sealing of the office. We can no longer enter or meet in this place."

She added: "This place was the only one that brought together the families of the disappeared. Here we laughed and cried, and we all came together for justice. It gave us hope and optimism to continue the struggle." She expressed hope that this decision would be temporary because "this place is the home of our disappeared children. Despite everything, we will continue our struggle for truth and justice."

She affirmed that the closure decision will not push them to retreat, but rather will increase their determination to continue, with ongoing support from activists and human rights defenders inside and outside Algeria.

It is worth noting that Nasira Dutour was banned from entering Algeria on July 30, 2025, upon her arrival at Algiers International Airport, a step that sparked a wide wave of condemnation inside and outside Algeria, especially among human rights activists and defenders of the families of the disappeared.

On March 17, 2026, the Algerian authorities closed the office of the Association of the Disappeared in the capital, implementing an administrative decision issued by the services of the Algiers Province on the 12th of the same month.