Algeria is weighing a controversial new law that could strip citizens of their nationality for actions deemed detrimental to national interests or indicative of allegiance to foreign powers. The proposed legislation, currently under review by the National People’s Assembly, aims to safeguard national identity and prevent potential exploitation by foreign intelligence agencies or political entities.
The initiative, spearheaded by parliamentarian Hichem Sefar, follows growing concerns within the Algerian government regarding dual loyalties, particularly among the expanding diaspora. Supporters of the bill argue it is a necessary measure to protect Algeria’s stability and sovereignty in an increasingly complex global landscape.
According to reports, the proposed law outlines specific circumstances that could trigger citizenship revocation. These include providing services to a foreign nation with the intent to harm Algeria, working for foreign security forces or intelligence agencies, and assisting hostile states or entities despite official warnings from the Algerian government.
Furthermore, the legislation targets individuals involved in supporting, financing, or promoting terrorist or subversive groups. Legal experts suggest this provision aims to close existing loopholes exploited by Algerians working with hostile foreign organizations. The inclusion of this clause reflects a desire to bolster sovereign deterrence and safeguard national security on an international scale.
The proposed law also extends to individuals who commit similar acts within Algeria, potentially leading to the revocation of citizenship acquired through naturalization. Importantly, the text emphasizes the legal rights of individuals affected by the proposed legislation, aiming to ensure its application remains within prescribed boundaries and avoids misuse for political vendettas or repression.
Sources close to the legislative process suggest that the emphasis on legal safeguards signifies a balance between security imperatives and judicial fairness. This balance, they assert, demonstrates the legislature’s commitment to preventing the law from becoming a tool for settling scores or suppressing political dissent.
The timing of the proposal is significant. It emerged following remarks made by the President of Algeria during a press conference, where he alluded to individuals he described as “traitors within the house.” Observers interpret the link between the proposed law and the President’s statements as giving the project political weight. It sends a clear message that the state is moving towards strengthening national loyalty as a fundamental requirement of citizenship in a global context where diaspora communities are increasingly exploited for non-national purposes.
Parliamentarian Sefar has emphasized that existing Algerian law allows for such measures. He cited Article 36 of the Nationality Code, which explicitly outlines the conditions for stripping citizenship in cases that threaten national security and the supreme interests of the state. This reference provides a legal basis for the proposal and underscores the seriousness with which the Algerian government is addressing perceived threats to its national identity and security.
