BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Dr. Ibtissem Hamlaoui Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Sahrawi Refugees in Tindouf as UN Official Praises Algeria’s Humanitarian Leadership
Algiers, Algeria | April 18th, 2025 — Dr. Ibtissem Hamlaoui, President of the Algerian Red Crescent (CRA), received Mr. Alistair Bolton, the Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Algeria, at the CRA headquarters in Algiers.
The discussions centered on enhancing field coordination, developing joint humanitarian programs, and improving response mechanisms to address the health, psychological, and social needs of refugees in Algeria, particularly the long-settled Sahrawi refugee population in the Tindouf camps.
Dr. Hamlaoui reaffirmed the Algerian Red Crescent’s unwavering dedication to supporting Sahrawi refugees, emphasizing the importance of delivering comprehensive care, sustainable assistance, and social accompaniment in line with the organization’s long-standing cooperation with UNHCR. She underscored the CRA’s role as a frontline humanitarian actor, rooted in the principles of solidarity and committed to responding to the region’s complex humanitarian challenges.
“We remain fully engaged in our mission to support the most vulnerable, particularly Sahrawi refugees in Tindouf,” stated Dr. Hamlaoui. “Our partnership with UNHCR is built on trust, shared values, and a common goal: ensuring dignity, protection, and human security for all those forced to flee their homes.”
Mr. Alistair Bolton commended the tireless efforts of the Algerian Red Crescent and praised the Algerian State’s proactive stance in supporting refugee populations. He acknowledged the CRA’s multifaceted work across humanitarian sectors and pledged UNHCR’s full support for all efforts related to Sahrawi refugee relief and assistance.
“The Algerian Red Crescent stands as a model of commitment and compassion. We greatly value the strategic partnership that exists between UNHCR and CRA, and we are determined to strengthen our joint response to evolving humanitarian needs,” said Mr. Bolton.
