BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | January 23rd, 2025 — The National Council of Algerian Journalists (NCAJ) has strongly condemned the European Parliament’s latest resolution, accusing the institution of blatant double standards in addressing human rights. In its recent deliberation, the Parliament selectively highlighted alleged human rights concerns in Algeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Iran, while egregiously ignoring documented atrocities in Gaza and systemic abuses in Morocco. This selective approach, according to the NCAJ, reeks of geopolitical bias and tarnishes the European Parliament’s credibility as a supposed advocate of democratic values.
The resolution conveniently omitted the plight of over two million Palestinians in Gaza, who endure relentless bombings and an inhumane blockade that has persisted for over a decade. Most shocking, perhaps, is the silence surrounding the martyrdom of over 200 journalists in Gaza during the last year, casualties of targeted attacks that undermine press freedom in one of the most hostile environments for media professionals.
“It is incomprehensible that the European Parliament, a body that prides itself on defending human rights and freedom of expression, would turn a blind eye to such blatant violations. Instead of standing in solidarity with journalists in Gaza or condemning war crimes, the Parliament chooses to target Algeria—a country committed to advancing freedom of the press and human rights,” the NCAJ stated in a powerful rebuke.
The Silence on Gaza: A Grave Injustice
The NCAJ has accused the European Parliament of failing to meet its moral obligations by ignoring the documented crimes in Gaza. The Council decried the European body’s apparent unwillingness to hold Israel accountable for its actions, despite overwhelming evidence of war crimes and the systematic targeting of journalists.
“By remaining silent, the European Parliament betrays its stated commitment to press freedom. This is not just a failure of advocacy—it is complicity in injustice,” the NCAJ remarked.
Morocco’s Human Rights Record: A Convenient Blind Spot
The NCAJ also criticized the Parliament’s glaring omission of Morocco’s well-documented human rights abuses. Prominent journalists, including Omar Radi, Soulaimane Raissouni, and Taoufik Bouachrine, remain imprisoned under dubious charges, while activists from the Rif Hirak Movement have faced years of persecution.
“These cases are not hidden; they are known and documented. Yet, the European Parliament chooses to ignore them while issuing resolutions targeting Algeria. Why the double standard? Why the silence on Morocco?” the Council asked pointedly.
The NCAJ suggested that the answer lies in the recent “Morocco Gate” scandal, in which Moroccan officials were found to have bribed European lawmakers to influence decisions in favor of Rabat. These revelations, backed by investigations from Belgian intelligence and reports from Politico, implicated Moroccan diplomats, including Abd Rahim Atmoun, in a widespread corruption scheme aimed at silencing criticism of Morocco while fueling unwarranted attacks on Algeria.
Algeria’s Commitment to Press Freedom
In contrast to the selective criticism of Algeria, the NCAJ emphasized that Algeria remains firmly committed to press freedom, a right enshrined in the country’s 2020 Constitution. Article 54 of the Constitution guarantees journalists the freedom to carry out their work without arbitrary restrictions or the threat of imprisonment, underscoring Algeria’s dedication to a free and independent press.
“Algeria’s Constitution reflects a firm commitment to freedom of expression, and the country continues to uphold its legal obligations under international law to protect journalists and human rights defenders,” the NCAJ stated.
The Council also pointed to the independent actions of Algeria’s judiciary, which continues to function without interference from political forces, ensuring that press freedom remains intact despite external pressure from groups that seek to tarnish the country’s reputation.
The NCAJ urged the European Parliament to reassess its selective stance on human rights and adopt a more consistent and impartial approach when addressing such critical issues. It also called on the international community to hold governments accountable for their actions and refrain from political exploitation of human rights issues for geopolitical gain.
“By ignoring the glaring human rights violations occurring in Gaza and Morocco while unfairly targeting Algeria, the European Parliament undermines its credibility and moral authority. We demand that the European Parliament cease its selective interference and instead focus on upholding genuine human rights for all,” the NCAJ concluded.
Algeria, according to the NCAJ, remains steadfast in its dedication to its sovereignty and will not bow to external pressures aimed at undermining its integrity or its commitment to global peace and justice.
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