Bernard J. Durkan
Question:100 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which human rights abuses continue in Algeria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17031/00]
Vol. 521 No. 3
100 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which human rights abuses continue in Algeria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17031/00]
The human rights situation in Algeria remains a cause for concern, even if improvements are taking place. At the recent 56th session of the UN Commission of Human Rights, Ireland together with our EU partners, welcomed a number of positive developments in Algeria and signs of co-operation by the Government of Algeria with its international partners. In response to representations by the EU, the Algerian authorities have furnished information to the EU Presidency about a number of disappearance cases. They have undertaken to follow up with further information and have advised the presidency that they have undertaken to keep the Commission of Human Rights informed on a regular basis about cases of persons reported to have disappeared in Algeria. It is clearly important that these assurances are kept.
Algeria has committed itself to the democratisation and reform process. Algeria's constitution of 1996 guarantees basic human rights, including an independent judiciary. Algeria is also party to a number of human rights conventions, including the international covenant on civil and political rights, on economic, social and cultural rights and the convention against torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
Ireland and the EU are encouraging Algeria to honour these commitments and persevere with necessary economic and social reforms and modernisation and improvements in human rights, particularly in the context of Algeria's Barcelona Process commitments, under which concrete constructive assistance is being provided. In this context, the moves by President Bouteflika's Government towards economic and social modernisation and reform, though currently in a delicate phase and resisted by some elements, can provide the basis for a peaceful future for Algeria. Full respect for human rights will be an essential element.