Interview with the author: Bachir Dahak

In a few sentences, how would you describe the situation of freedom of association in Algeria?It is an ongoing challenge for associations whose mission is to combat cultural and religious archaism; and a daily risk for those whose programs speak out against the government.
Yet at the same time, it is the only legal structure which is protected – at least officially – from systematic destruction and obliteration by dominant political views and policies.
Two recent examples illustrate these words:
In Khenchela (eastern Algeria), the President of Transparency Algeria, an association against corruption, was arrested like any commonplace delinquent and humiliated during police custody, whereas dozens of citizens were waiting for him to appear at a conference.
In Chlef (mid-west Algeria), the president of an association for apartment tenants, a quiet retired schoolteacher, was summoned to appear in criminal court by the prefect because he contested (in writing in the press) the manner in which disaster victims had been rehoused.

What is the main positive point in the current situation (if one)?
Faced with the terrifying authoritarianism of an arrogant regime that caters to influential voters, associations have been the only voice to speak out, the only note of hope for thousands of citizens who know that it is our society which is fearful, not the State and its clones which are invincible.
As regards ecology and environmental respect, associations have succeeded in mobilizing public opinion against the laxity and political racketeering of decision-makers, who are perfectly capable of building a freeway in the middle of a protected natural reserve. 

What are the main obstacles to the normal use of the freedom of association in Algeria?
The main obstacle is the non-availability of offices or premises, which would allow associations to develop and carry out their activities normally. Even private owners hesitate to rent their premises to associations who are known for their spirit of revolt or anti-conformism.
Next, there is an absence of subvention policies and accompanying measures for associations; even when it is in the authorities’ interest to listen to such associations and use them as intermediaries.
Lastly, we witness an explosion of unpunished immoral behavior at the local level which aims at discrediting associations - presenting them as non-patriotic or as intermediaries for foreign agents.
During the local elections which were held on November 29th, many associations were carefully kept tabs on to find out whether they supported or contested the presidential alliance parties (FLN/ RND and ex-Hamas).

What is your personal opinion about the future of freedom of association in Algeria?
I am extremely worried because the desire to smother associations’ diverging opinions is endorsed by a legal system that is particularly servile and corrupt.
In addition, the extreme financial affluence of Algeria only enforces the idea (and reality) that a State that does not need its people, it can treat them with contempt and violence, and this with the benediction or knowing silence of a surprising number of actors.