Algeria’s current review of its citizenship law has sparked unease among political activists and civil society groups who fear that the legal amendments may be leveraged to suppress dissent and consolidate governmental control. Observers highlight the vague language within the proposed revisions, which could grant authorities broad discretion in determining eligibility, thus potentially excluding individuals based on their political affiliations or activism. This move has raised alarms about the erosion of democratic freedoms in a region already grappling with political volatility.

Experts warn that the law’s ambiguous criteria might be used to:

  • Target opposition figures by revoking or denying citizenship rights.
  • Undermine minority groups under the pretext of national security concerns.
  • Restrict freedom of expression