Algerian Minister Krikou Highlights National Policy Supporting Women at Samarkand Forum
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- Algerian Minister of Solidarity, Family, and Women’s Affairs, Kaouter Krikou, emphasized Algeria’s policy of comprehensive support for women across all sectors during her address at the two-day International Forum on ‘The Experience of Uzbekistan and OIC Member States in Supporting Women’ held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
In her speech, Minister Krikou underscored the achievements of Algerian women in reaching top governmental, judicial, and parliamentary positions, attributing these milestones to the state’s unwavering commitment to supporting women in all facets of life. She highlighted the accessibility of higher education for Algerian women without discrimination, coupled with the availability of educational structures nationwide, resulting in women constituting a significant percentage of university graduates.
Minister Krikou acknowledged the pivotal role of women in Algerian society, emphasizing their prominence in the workforce and commending the nation’s accomplishments in women’s empowerment. She reiterated Algeria’s dedication to a social state model, emphasizing continuous efforts to reinforce national solidarity programs and mechanisms ensuring social justice and equal opportunities, as enshrined in the country’s supreme law through the constitutional revision of November 2020.
The 2020 Constitution underscores the state’s commitment to protecting women from all forms of violence and facilitating their integration into society through listening, support, and accompaniment. It reinforces the principle of gender equality in the job market and broadens women’s chances of representation in elected assemblies.
Minister Krikou further emphasized that supporting women necessitates ensuring their social protection through a legal framework, a commitment that Algeria has fulfilled. Regarding the recent Zionist aggression against Gaza and the West Bank, Minister Krikou condemned the heinous acts against the Palestinian people, particularly women. She argued that any international initiative against violence towards women must also denounce the grave violations experienced by Palestinian women, holding the Zionist occupation accountable for its crimes against humanity.
Aligning with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s call to jurists and human rights organizations to take legal action against the Zionist entity at the International Criminal Court (ICC), Minister Krikou urged global solidarity and action, especially in support of Palestinian women.
In the context of peace processes, Minister Krikou advocated for women’s involvement in conflict resolution, aligning with Algeria’s goal as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. She called for an inclusive participatory approach, ensuring women’s participation in peace and stability-building processes.
Minister Krikou’s participation in the Samarkand Forum reflects Algeria’s commitment to international cooperation and the empowerment of women, showcasing its achievements and advocating for global solidarity in the face of challenges faced by women, particularly in conflict zones.
