Ouargla, Algeria – October 27, 2025 – The President of the National Observatory of Civil Society (ONSC), Ibtissem Hamlaoui, has called for the nationwide revitalization of neighborhood and village committees, emphasizing their crucial role in fostering participatory democracy and driving local development initiatives. Hamlaoui made the appeal during a visit to Ouargla, where she oversaw the launch of a series of regional meetings dedicated to associations representing local committees across the wilayas (provinces) of Ouargla and Touggourt. The event, held at the Mofdi Zakaria Cultural Center, brought together representatives from over 200 local associations.
Hamlaoui underscored the importance of these committees as vital platforms for community consultation and active citizen involvement. She stated that their reactivation is essential for reinforcing a collaborative approach to governance and promoting a sense of ownership among residents in addressing local challenges and opportunities. “These committees represent the very foundation of a participatory democracy. They provide a direct link between the citizens and the authorities, allowing for a more responsive and effective approach to local development,” she declared.
The ONSC President explained that the primary objective of these regional meetings is to strengthen participatory governance and cultivate a community-based approach to problem-solving. By empowering local associations, the ONSC aims to facilitate their active contribution to improving the quality of life for citizens and instilling a strong sense of civic responsibility. The meetings serve as a platform for these associations to share experiences, discuss best practices, and develop concrete proposals for addressing local needs.
“The National Observatory of Civil Society is committed to channeling the recommendations and proposals emanating from these sessions to the relevant authorities, with the aim of translating them into actionable policies and concrete initiatives,” Hamlaoui affirmed. She further highlighted that these regional gatherings are a preparatory stage for a national conference scheduled for December, where key findings and recommendations from across the country will be consolidated and presented to national policymakers.
Hamlaoui also emphasized the preventive role of these associations in combating social ills and addressing the growing problem of drug abuse, especially among youth. She stressed the importance of fostering social cohesion, promoting a culture of reporting suspicious activities, and encouraging volunteerism within communities. The neighborhood and village committees, she argued, can serve as critical watchdogs, identifying potential problems early on and mobilizing community resources to address them effectively.
The initiative has been widely welcomed by participating associations, who lauded the organization of these sessions as a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and showcase successful initiatives in community-based work and local development. Many representatives expressed their gratitude for the ONSC’s efforts in providing a platform for them to voice their concerns and contribute to the shaping of local policies.
“This is a golden opportunity for us to learn from each other, share our challenges, and collectively brainstorm solutions,” said one participant, a representative from a local association in Ouargla. “We believe that by working together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our community members.”
Beyond the meetings, Hamlaoui also oversaw a medical caravan organized for children with cerebral palsy and individuals with special needs in the wilaya of Ouargla. This initiative, spearheaded by the “Hope of Life” association in coordination with the Algerian Red Crescent, provided much-needed support to vulnerable members of the community. The caravan distributed wheelchairs and provided other essential medical supplies. Notably, an ambulance was donated to the border region of El Borma, significantly enhancing access to healthcare for residents in that remote area.
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In addition, Hamlaoui participated in the launch of an awareness campaign for the early detection of breast cancer at a treatment center in the Tazgarrart neighborhood. This initiative was timed to coincide with the global Pink October campaign, which aims to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection through regular screening. The campaign included educational sessions, free screenings, and the distribution of informational materials.
These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to addressing the diverse needs of the population and promoting social well-being across the wilaya. The ONSC, under Hamlaoui’s leadership, is actively working to strengthen the role of civil society organizations in contributing to national development and improving the lives of Algerian citizens.
The focus on activating local committees comes at a time when Algeria is seeking to diversify its economy and empower local communities to drive sustainable development. By fostering greater citizen participation and promoting local initiatives, the government hopes to unlock the potential of communities across the country and build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Algerians. The success of this approach hinges on the effective functioning of these local committees, which serve as the vital link between the government and the people. The ONSC’s efforts to revitalize these committees are therefore a crucial step towards achieving this goal.
The government has expressed its support for the ONSC’s initiative, recognizing the important role that civil society organizations play in promoting social and economic development. Several government officials have publicly praised Hamlaoui’s leadership and her commitment to empowering local communities. The government has pledged to work closely with the ONSC to ensure that the recommendations and proposals emanating from these regional meetings are given serious consideration and translated into concrete policies and programs.
The activation of neighborhood and village committees is not without its challenges. Some committees may lack the resources, training, or technical expertise necessary to effectively address local needs. Others may face resistance from entrenched interests or bureaucratic hurdles. However, the ONSC is committed to providing the necessary support to these committees to help them overcome these challenges and fulfill their potential. This includes providing training programs, technical assistance, and access to funding opportunities.
Ultimately, the success of this initiative will depend on the active participation of citizens and the willingness of local authorities to work collaboratively with civil society organizations. By working together, they can create a more vibrant and participatory democracy and build a better future for all Algerians.
