National Commission Designated for Neighborhood Gang Prevention

The National Commission for the Prevention of Neighborhood Gangs has been officially established in Algeria, fulfilling part of the nation's efforts to enhance social stability and internal security. Members of the commission were formally designated through an order from the Ministry of Interior, Local Collectivities, and Transport, which was published in Official Journal number 60. This order, signed on May 17, implements Executive Decree n°21-123 of March 29, 2021, a measure that outlines the structure and operational framework for both national and wilaya-level commissions dedicated to preventing neighborhood gang activities.

Chaired by Salah Bouguagua, a representative of the Minister in charge of Interior, the commission comprises a broad array of stakeholders from various government sectors and civil society. Key participants include representatives from the Ministries of Justice, Religious Affairs, National Education, Higher Education, Vocational Training, Culture, Urbanism, Communication, and Employment. Additionally, critical institutions such as the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN), the National Gendarmerie Command, the National Office for the Fight Against Drugs and Drug Addiction, the National Institute of Public Health, and the Higher Youth Council are also represented.

Further enriching its capabilities, the new commission integrates specialized experts and members from civil society. Noteworthy appointees include criminologists Mohamed Amine Adda Bouhadda and Miloud Hamami, sociologist Mustapha Medjahdi, and psychologist Anas Bahmed. This comprehensive composition, encompassing various sectors and domains of expertise, is designed to bolster coordination and foster a proactive, preventive approach to address the phenomenon of neighborhood gangs effectively across Algeria.