UN Experts Demand Overturning of Prison Sentence for Algerian Poet Djamila Bentouis

“We are outraged by the government’s practice, which aims to silence a political protest movement by arbitrarily arresting and detaining people who dare to stand up and speak out,” the experts declared.

The Algerian Appeals Court is urged to overturn the prison sentence of Djamila Bentouis, a poet associated with the Hirak protest movement, according to a statement released today by UN experts. They expressed outrage at the Algerian government's tactics to suppress dissent by arresting individuals who dare to challenge the political status quo.

“We are outraged by the government’s practice, which aims to silence a political protest movement by arbitrarily arresting and detaining people who dare to stand up and speak out,” the experts declared. They voiced deep concern over Bentouis’ continued detention, her two-year prison sentence, and the fine of 100,000 Algerian dinars imposed on her last July due to her participation in the Hirak social protest movement.

Charges Against Bentouis Linked to Artistic Expression

The experts highlighted that the charges against Bentouis seem to stem directly from her exercise of freedom of expression, particularly through her art. “We urge the Appeals Court to overturn her sentencing and clear her of all charges, which contravene international law,” they asserted.

Bentouis has been an outspoken participant in the Hirak movement, which emerged in 2019 in response to the resignation of former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Her patriotic poems and songs, which resonate with the protesters' demands, have gained significant traction on social media and in public recitals, notably in Paris.

Chilling Effect on Freedom of Expression

The experts cautioned that the conviction of an artist for merely voicing public concerns creates a chilling effect on the entire population. “When an artist speaking out on public affairs is abusively convicted on charges of deliberately spreading false or malicious news that could harm security or public order, a chilling effect on the entire population is what is clearly intended,” they warned.

They also referred to previous reports detailing ongoing repression and intimidation of individuals and organizations critical of the government, including the Hirak movement. These reports included specific recommendations to drop charges against those exercising their legitimate rights.

Concerns About Terrorism Charges

The initial charges against Bentouis include allegations of undermining national integrity and belonging to a terrorist entity. The experts warned that prosecuting her for terrorism under Article 87 bis and other national security offenses could severely undermine freedom of expression and association in Algeria. This could particularly impact the artistic community, Algerians abroad, and civil society as a whole.

“We very much hope that Algeria will abide by its international obligations to guarantee the right to freedom of expression in the country when Ms. Bentouis’ appeal is decided before the Algiers Judicial Council on October 2,” the experts stated.

The UN experts have communicated with the Algerian government regarding this issue and are currently awaiting a response.