Culture Ministry Establishes Three Children’s Book Festivals

Algeria's Ministry of Culture and Arts has established three new international cultural festivals focused on children's books. Minister Malika Ben Doudah issued decisions for two of these festivals, to be held in Algeria and Ouargla, which were published in the official gazette on July 1, 2026. A separate ministerial decision, issued in February 2026, previously established another international children's book festival in Constantine.

These initiatives are intended to cultivate a love for reading among children and young adults, nurturing their imaginations through diverse literary experiences. Writer Najia Bilal welcomed the creation of these events, describing them as a significant and forward-looking step that underscores the profound importance of culture in shaping future generations. The festivals are envisioned as vibrant platforms where children can discover the joy of reading and creators can develop content that elevates cultural appreciation.

Author Souhila Rezigue highlighted that the establishment of these festivals represents a crucial advancement for children's literature, which she notes has evolved into a comprehensive industry encompassing authorship, publishing, illustrations, marketing, translation, and even audio-visual adaptations. The events are expected to create essential forums for interaction among all stakeholders in children's book production, fostering collaboration and the exchange of expertise. Furthermore, they aim to stimulate translation and cultural exchange, enabling Algerian literature to reach international audiences and exposing Algerian children to a rich variety of global literary experiences.