Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune announced an exceptional regularization measure for Algerian citizens living abroad in irregular situations during a cabinet council meeting on Sunday. The president called on young Algerian nationals in precarious circumstances to regularize their status and return home, describing the initiative as both humane and responsible in addressing the challenges faced by expatriates.
The announcement came as Algeria prepares to celebrate Yennayer 2976, the Amazigh New Year, adding symbolic significance to the presidential appeal. Tebboune directed Algerian consulates abroad to facilitate the official and safe return of citizens who wish to benefit from this exceptional measure. The government presented the initiative as an act of national clemency aimed at reuniting families and providing protection for vulnerable migrants.
The regularization program comes with specific conditions that applicants must meet to qualify. Beneficiaries must commit to not returning to illegal migration and must not be involved in serious crimes including murder, drug trafficking, or weapons dealing. Those who have collaborated with foreign intelligence services targeting Algeria's security are explicitly excluded from the amnesty program.
President Tebboune emphasized that most young Algerians abroad have only committed minor offenses, often related to fear of security interrogation or public order matters. He argued that many youth were misled or manipulated by individuals seeking to damage the state's credibility, stating that their current situations abroad do not merit the suffering they endure including exploitation by criminal networks and separation from their families.
The presidential announcement arrives amid ongoing discrepancies between Algerian security claims and European migration agency data. While Algerian authorities maintain lower figures, European agencies report between 10,000 and 15,000 Algerian irregular departures annually. Tebboune warned against parties who instrumentalize clandestine emigration statistics to damage Algeria's international reputation and encourage illegal departures.
The initiative also follows recent parliamentary approval of comprehensive nationality law reforms in Algeria. The government stated that processing for returnees will occur through Algerian consulates, which will coordinate the logistics of repatriation. Officials emphasized that the measure demonstrates the state's commitment to its citizens regardless of their current circumstances abroad.
Human rights observers have offered mixed reactions to the announcement. Activist Rashid Awania described the discourse as appearing humanitarian but fundamentally serving as a political screening mechanism. Critics warn that acceptance of the amnesty may precede harsher measures for those who do not comply, including potential citizenship revocation. Supporters argue the initiative offers a genuine pathway for young Algerians to rebuild their lives in their homeland without facing legal consequences for past immigration violations.
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