Brussels, 12/07/2011 (Agence Europe) - In a press release on Algeria, the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Network (EMHRN) deplores the human rights situation there, pointing to the recrudescence of acts of legal harassment against trade unionists and human rights activists because of their militant activity. It cites specific cases of activists accused of unarmed gatherings and violent aggression on law and order enforcement officers. The prosecution of journalists and trade unionists has also been reported. Although such prosecution often results in acquittal, activists are prevented from fully playing their role, being forced to devote themselves to preparing their defence, the EMHRN states.
The EMHRN calls on Algerian authorities to put an end to acts of harassment against human rights defenders, independent trade unionists and peaceful demonstrators and on the EU to provide urgent and visible support to human rights defenders. (F.B./transl.jl)