Algiers, October 23, 2025 – The Algerian government is intensifying its efforts to combat the exploitation of children in begging, announcing a series of preventative and punitive measures. The Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transportation, Said Saayoud, emphasized the government’s deep concern regarding this issue, highlighting the vulnerability of children and their susceptibility to exploitation.
Addressing the National People’s Assembly, Minister Saayoud stated that the General Directorate of National Security, in collaboration with relevant administrative authorities, is implementing a national strategy to tackle child begging. This strategy includes increased security patrols in areas known for begging activity, particularly major transportation hubs and thoroughfares. Enhanced intelligence gathering will also be employed to identify and apprehend those involved in exploiting children.
Furthermore, the government plans to launch awareness campaigns aimed at parents and guardians, in partnership with various stakeholders, to discourage the exploitation of children for financial gain and to safeguard the best interests of the child. Instructions have been issued to governors to address the issue in coordination with local security committees, focusing on reducing begging and preventing attempts to mislead or extort citizens.
The Minister also addressed the issue of irregular migrants from other African nations exploiting children in begging. He affirmed that a comprehensive national strategy is in place to combat irregular migration, adhering to humanitarian standards and international laws and agreements. This strategy is multi-faceted and aims to address the root causes of the problem.
In parallel with these security measures, the government is committed to providing social support and safeguarding the dignity of vulnerable populations, reinforcing the social character of the state through strengthened social assistance mechanisms, Minister Saayoud concluded.
