HIBAPRESS
The Algerian Trade Union Confederation, which includes 12 independent unions representing various sectors of the public service, foremost the education sector, has directed sharp criticism at the authorities of the Algerian regime, accusing them of continuing what it described as a systematic "policy of repression and restrictions" against trade union activity.
In an official statement, the Confederation warned that these practices directly threaten trade union freedoms and increase the fragility of social stability, especially after the escalation of the arrest wave that affected a number of prominent trade union leaders, most notably Massoud Boudiba, the national coordinator of the National Independent Council for Teaching Staff for the Tripartite Sector, who has been under judicial supervision since last February.
The unions pointed out that targeting Boudiba, known for his outspoken defense of workers' rights and his opposition to the policies of employers, has led to widespread resentment within labor circles and has restricted the ability of trade union organizations to perform their representative functions freely and independently.
The statement also condemned the laws restricting trade union work, foremost among them laws 23-02 and 08-23, considering that they empty the right to strike of its true content and limit the effectiveness of the unions. It also condemned the discriminatory administrative procedures that impede the recognition of a number of independent unions, describing them as a violation of the constitution and contrary to freedom of organization.
The Confederation warned that the deterioration of workers' purchasing power has exacerbated the social situation, calling for a review of basic systems and compensation laws to improve the conditions of workers, especially in the education sector, which it believes will not achieve quality and stability without improving the living conditions of teachers.
The statement concluded by pointing out that the restrictions in Algeria no longer affect only trade union freedoms, but have extended to the right to demonstrate and express, citing the prevention of solidarity stands with Gaza and the suppression of the "213 Generation Z" initiative, which reflects – according to the statement – a systematic policy to muzzle voices and deepen control over civil society and independent unions.
