Algeria's government adopted a new National Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Neighborhood Gangs for the period 2026-2029 on Thursday, marking a significant step in addressing internal security challenges. Prime Minister Sifi Gherib chaired the government meeting where the strategy was presented by the Minister of Interior, Local Communities, and Transport. This full initiative aims to confront the persistent phenomenon of neighborhood gangs, protect society from their disruptive influence, maintain public order across urban and rural areas, and ultimately ensure citizens' tranquility and sense of security. The development and adoption of this strategy topped the agenda of the government's discussions, showing its national importance and urgency.
Strategy Details and Framework
The new national strategy is built upon an integrated approach, according to official government statements released following the meeting. This forward-looking framework combines several key pillars designed to tackle gang activity from multiple angles: prevention, deterrence, reintegration, and awareness. The strategy aims not only to address the immediate manifestations of gang activity but also to delve into the root causes that contribute to its emergence and persistence. By focusing on prevention, the government seeks to pre-empt the formation and growth of gangs, while deterrence measures are intended to curb their existing spread and activities. The reintegration pillar notes efforts to rehabilitate individuals involved in gang activities, offering pathways for their return to productive societal roles. Awareness campaigns are also a key component, designed to educate the public and foster community resilience against gang influences.
The strategy operates strictly within the legal framework established by Order No. 20-03, which dates back to August 31, 2020. This existing order provides the essential legal basis and regulatory context for the new national initiative, ensuring its full alignment with current Algerian legislation concerning public order and security. The government emphasized that the strategy's design and proposed implementation are fully compliant with the provisions of this foundational order, providing a strong legal footing for all actions undertaken.
Implementation and Next Steps
To move from strategic planning to concrete action, a joint ministerial meeting is scheduled to be convened in the near future. This key meeting will focus on approving the sectoral action plans necessary for the strategy's full implementation across various government functions. The gathering will bring together representatives from multiple ministries, ensuring a coordinated and synergistic approach across different government departments. The approval of these detailed plans marks a critical step towards operationalizing the new national strategy for the prevention and control of neighborhood gangs. The government aims to ensure that each sector's specific actions and initiatives align smoothly with the overarching goals of protecting society, maintaining public order, and ensuring citizen tranquility throughout the country. This collaborative effort is meticulously designed to translate the strategic framework into tangible, impactful actions on the ground, effectively addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by gang activities in Algerian neighborhoods. The outcome of this forthcoming meeting will define the specific responsibilities, resource allocations, and timelines for each involved ministry, setting the definitive stage for the strategy's phased rollout and ongoing execution.
Broader Government Agenda
Beyond the critical discussion on public security, the government meeting also addressed other significant national priorities. The government heard a full presentation on expanding the use of the National Portal for Digital Services. This initiative forms an integral part of the broader National Digital Transformation Strategy 2025-2030, reflecting Algeria's commitment to modernizing public services and enhancing digital accessibility for its citizens. Additionally, the government reviewed the progress of the strategic vision for the development and modernization of Algiers, the nation's capital. This review included a detailed focus on efforts to protect and preserve the distinguished sector of the Kasbah of Algiers. The Kasbah of Algiers has been officially classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992, recognizing its immense historical and cultural significance. The presentation detailed various restoration projects currently underway for historical landmarks and palaces within the Kasbah, alongside the essential rehabilitation of damaged alleys and houses. These discussions collectively highlight the government's dual focus on advancing digital transformation and diligently preserving Algeria's rich cultural heritage.