DZWatch Exclusive: The Algerian government is reviewing the wage structure for its 725,000 contract workers, addressing concerns raised about employees working part-time across various sectors. The Ministry of Relations with Parliament has issued clarifications on the matter, referencing correspondence from the General Directorate of Public Service and Administrative Reform dated November 13, 2025.
Responding to inquiries from parliamentarians and tasked by the Prime Minister, the Ministry outlined the legal framework governing contract employment within the public sector. This framework is primarily based on Order No. 06-03, dated July 15, 2006, which establishes the general statute for public service. Article 19 of this statute specifically addresses the system of contract employment, particularly for positions involving maintenance, upkeep, and services within public institutions and administrations. According to the Ministry, hiring for these roles is now exclusively conducted through contract arrangements.
The Ministry further explained that contract workers are subject to Presidential Decree No. 07-308, dated September 29, 2007. This decree defines the procedures for their employment, their rights and obligations, the components of their salaries, and the regulations governing their management, including disciplinary measures. This decree ensures that contract workers receive similar rights to permanent employees, encompassing aspects such as salary, compensation, training, disciplinary safeguards, paid leave, social services, social security, and retirement benefits.
The regulations, detailed in Articles 2 through 8 of the Presidential Decree, differentiate between contracts based on the nature of the activity – whether temporary or permanent. Fixed-term contracts are designated for temporary activities, while open-ended contracts are reserved for permanent roles. Public institutions and administrations are also authorized to employ contract workers on a part-time basis, typically for five hours per day. As of December 31, 2024, the public sector employed approximately 725,428 contract workers.
