New National Agency to Safeguard Algerian Heritage
A new National Agency for Antiquities has been established by presidential decree to oversee the protection, preservation, and valorization of Algeria's archaeological heritage. This initiative aims to develop scientific research and manage archaeological sites across the country.
A presidential decree, signed by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on November 4, 2026, has officially established the National Agency for Antiquities. Published in Official Gazette No. 78 on November 10, 2026, the decree designates the agency as a public industrial and commercial establishment endowed with legal personality and financial autonomy. Headquartered in Algiers and placed under the direct supervision of the Presidency of the Republic, this new body is tasked with a core mission to oversee the fields of antiquities and archaeological heritage, fostering its protection, preservation, and valorization, alongside advancing scientific research and exploration across Algeria.
The agency is responsible for formulating and implementing national policy regarding antiquities, coordinating efforts with relevant sectors. Its mandate includes developing comprehensive plans and programs for the preservation, restoration, protection, and maintenance of archaeological sites and artifacts. Furthermore, it will promote scientific research, valorize archaeological discoveries, disseminate knowledge, and enhance public awareness and education in this critical domain. The agency is also charged with preparing priority projects that integrate archaeological heritage protection and valorization with cultural tourism initiatives, alongside conducting extensive archaeological research utilizing the latest methods and opening new field workshops and excavations.
Moreover, the National Agency for Antiquities will identify the specific characteristics of archaeological heritage throughout Algeria, implementing strategic plans for its development and documentation. It will coordinate scientific research and surveys in both underwater and maritime archaeology. The decree also assigns the agency the responsibility for ensuring the consistency of national museum policies to articulate a unified national historical narrative, and for contributing to educational curricula related to heritage and archaeology. This institutional framework is designed to foster national and international scientific partnerships, thereby strengthening the preservation of Algeria's archaeological heritage as a fundamental element of the nation's historical memory and identity.
