الجمعة، 28 فبراير 2025 
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS– Algeria, a nation renowned for its rich architectural heritage, has achieved a significant milestone by securing official membership in the International Union of Architects. The announcement came during the Union’s General Assembly in Copenhagen, held from July 6th to 9th, where an overwhelming majority of 112 participating countries supported Algeria’s bid for membership.
Algeria’ successful accession to the International Union of Architects is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the National Council of Algerian Architects. Under the visionary leadership of Hacene Melkia, the Union effectively conveyed to member states the importance of Algeria’s global engagement. Acknowledging the country’s commitment to openness and its desire to join international and regional organizations, a majority of member states rallied behind Algeria’s membership bid.
Expressing his satisfaction with this significant achievement, Hacene Melkia, President of the National Council of Algerian Architects, stated, “This is a response to the path outlined by the country’ supreme authorities to open up to the world and join international and regional bodies. We have worked tirelessly to secure Algeria’s full-fledged membership, which will enable us to participate in programs established for reconstruction. This includes the crucial aspect of academic accreditation for architecture schools, allowing graduates from accredited institutions to practice in member countries.”
Moreover, Melkia highlighted that membership in the International Union of Architects “grants Algerian architects the opportunity to participate and contribute to international architectural competitions organized by global and regional architectural bodies.” He emphasized that this accession marks a significant step toward positioning Algeria as an active participant in all relevant international forums. Melkia also acknowledged the diplomatic efforts initiated by Algeria since President Abdelmadjid Tebboune assumed office.
At the local level, Melkia underscored the strategic role of the National Council of Algerian Architects as a crucial partner in government programs. The Council acts as an advisor, facilitating the realization of projects and contributing to the advancement of the national economy. The head of the National Council of Algerian Architects reiterated their mission to serve Algeria and its citizens by promoting architecture and enhancing the built environment.
During the General Assembly, the Algerian delegation, comprising two representatives from the National Council of Algerian Architects, participated in constructive discussions with various delegations, particularly those from neighboring Arab nations like Tunisia, Egypt, Palestine, and Saudi Arabia. These discussions facilitated meaningful exchanges regarding the architectural field as a vocation, possibilities for the development of training programs, the sharing of knowledge, the creation of employment opportunities, and methods for enhancing professional relationships at both regional and international levels.
Algeria’s official membership in the International Union of Architects marks the dawn of a new era for its architectural community. This accomplishment signifies Algeria’s dedication to engaging with the global architectural community, promoting the advancement of the profession within its borders, and establishing itself as a significant contributor to the international architectural sphere. The future appears promising, as Algerian architects now enjoy increased prospects for collaboration, professional advancement, and the pursuit of architectural excellence on the global stage.