United Nations Set to Receive Algerian Pollution Case

Algeria is advancing a comprehensive legal strategy to address what it describes as environmental aggressions, particularly water pollution, in its western regions. The nation is preparing to present a complete file of evidence to the United Nations, seeking legal and moral condemnation of Morocco. This initiative follows investigations and analyses that revealed chemical and microbiological contamination in the Oued Mouilah, a primary water source for the Hammam Boughrara dam in Tlemcen, prompting an intervention by a five-minister delegation.

Legal experts, including Fatima Zahra Benbraham and Slimane Lalali, assert that the documented pollution constitutes a full state crime, targeting public health, the environment, and biodiversity. Laboratory results indicating alarming levels of contamination provide the material evidence for Algeria's case. Benbraham highlighted that Algeria's recourse to international bodies is grounded in international law, particularly the principle that “the polluter pays,” classifying these actions as crimes against the environment, humans, animals, and plants.

The legal file intended for the United Nations and potentially the International Court of Justice will detail the criminal act, identify the Moroccan authorities as the instigators, and reference international laws that criminalize such deeds. Algerian authorities aim to protect the nation's water resources, ensure public health security, and preserve the ecological balance and biodiversity in its western territories. This decisive action underscores Algeria's commitment to safeguarding its national security and natural assets through international legal avenues.