IOM Commends Algeria’s Comprehensive Migration Management Approach

Addressing Common Challenges

During the discussions, participants examined common challenges and innovative solutions to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration and asylum practices in Algeria and the broader region. Rachid Meddah, Director General of Consular Affairs and the National Community Abroad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized in his opening remarks that Algeria’s approach is based on several “fundamental principles,” including the consideration of each country of origin’s unique circumstances.

Meddah described migration as a “complex” and “multidimensional” humanitarian issue, primarily affecting vulnerable groups such as children, women, and the elderly, who are often subjected to various forms of exploitation. He noted Algeria’s ratification of most international human rights agreements and its ongoing commitment to solidarity and cooperation within this framework.

Rejection of Pressure and Blackmail

Meddah further explained that Algeria’s strategy also addresses the root causes of illegal migration, particularly those related to political instability and armed conflicts. He praised the significant efforts made by the IOM in coordination with Algerian authorities and stressed the need for a comprehensive approach. This collaborative effort has resulted in the development of an action plan to facilitate the voluntary return of migrants to their home countries under optimal conditions.

He highlighted that due to its strategic position, recent economic development, and stability, Algeria has shifted from being a transit country to a host country for migrants. Despite this shift, the country relies on its own resources and has not received external aid. Meddah also emphasized that Algeria does not use migration as a means of “pressure” or “blackmail” in its policies, contrasting its stance with that of other countries. Instead, Algeria’s approach is grounded in humanitarian principles, focusing on assistance and cooperation.

Voluntary Return of Migrants

Meddah underscored the success of the partnership with the IOM, which has led to a program facilitating the voluntary return of 10,000 illegal migrants to their home countries. A tripartite commission involving the IOM, the European Union (EU), and the Algerian government has been established to find interactive and complementary funding solutions for this operation, ensuring support for migrants wishing to return home.

Additionally, he announced the creation of the Algerian Agency for International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development, funded with one billion dollars to initiate development projects in migrants’ countries of origin. This agency has already implemented several projects in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso and is prepared to consider projects from other African countries in need.

International Recognition and Support

Alejandro Alvarez, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Algeria, acknowledged the complexity of migration, noting that it cannot be addressed by a single country or region alone. He praised the evolving partnership with Algeria, highlighting that the country does not use migration as a political bargaining chip. Alvarez also noted the absence of hate speech against migrants in Algeria, where they are welcomed in good conditions, unlike in some other regional countries.

U.S. Ambassador to Algeria, Elisabeth Moore Aubin, echoed these sentiments, stating that global challenges are too significant to be handled by a single government. She emphasized that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to migration issues and expressed her country’s support for Algeria’s efforts to manage migration effectively.