Algiers, December 22, 2025 – Algeria is deepening its commitment to maternal protection, as highlighted during a meeting between the Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Security, Abdelhak Sayhi, and Faiza Ben Driss, head of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) mission in Algeria.
The meeting, held at the Ministry headquarters on Monday, saw Ms. Ben Driss present the UNFPA’s operational plan, focusing on family planning and demographic data management. She praised the Algerian government’s support for UNFPA programs and the facilitation of their partnership.
Minister Sayhi detailed the significant reforms underway in Algeria’s social security system, emphasizing the government’s dedication to strengthening social protection and promoting social justice. He specifically highlighted President’s decision to extend maternity leave for working women to a full five months, a major achievement that provides crucial support for working mothers, acknowledges the unique aspects of motherhood, and creates a more balanced and stable work environment. He also mentioned agreements with private clinics to provide childbirth care under the third-party payment system.
The Minister also underscored the annual contribution of social security to financing public hospitals through hospital block grants, noting a substantial allocation earmarked for 2026 to support public health.
The meeting served as an opportunity to exchange views on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Algeria and the UNFPA, particularly in social security and the development of social policies. Discussions centered around aligning these efforts with Algeria’s priorities in social development and care for the population, with a focus on protecting mothers and children amidst global environmental, climatic, and demographic shifts. Both parties affirmed the importance of enhancing cooperation and coordination to address these challenges, promoting sustainable development and social stability.
