Rights groups: Algeria increasing use of travel bans to target critics

Algerian authorities are increasingly imposing arbitrary travel bans on activists, journalists, and opposition figures, according to Human Rights Watch and MENA Rights Group. The rights groups claim the restrictions, often indefinite and issued without formal notice, violate freedom of movement and silence dissent.

Since 2022, at least 23 cases have been documented where individuals were prevented from traveling abroad without explanation. In some instances, passports were confiscated, and legal limits on travel bans were ignored. Algerian law mandates that travel bans last a maximum of six months, except in terrorism or corruption cases, but authorities frequently extend them without justification.

The European Parliament has linked future EU funding to Algeria’s human rights record, urging reforms to protect press freedom and judicial independence. Rights groups are calling for judicial oversight of travel bans and greater transparency. As repression intensifies, Algeria faces mounting international scrutiny over its treatment of political opponents.