Human rights organizations have renewed their criticism of the separatist Polisario Front’s leadership over alleged corruption and mismanagement of humanitarian aid in the Tindouf refugee camps in Algeria.
During the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, the Burundi-based Center for Training and Support of Veterans (CEDAC) accused Polisario leaders of systematically diverting international aid intended for camp residents, exacerbating food shortages and deepening the humanitarian crisis.
Karl Gustav Pieternis, CEDAC’s representative, denounced what he described as an “organized theft” of aid supplies, implicating both the Polisario and Algerian authorities in the exploitation of vulnerable refugees for political ends.
“The lives of thousands of people are at risk because of this systematic embezzlement,” he stated, urging the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food to launch an independent investigation into the deteriorating conditions in the camps.
Tindouf’s refugee population, which relies entirely on international aid, has long suffered from severe food shortages. According to CEDAC, much of the aid meant for refugees is redirected for profit instead of reaching those in need.
The organization called for the establishment of an independent monitoring body to oversee aid distribution, ensuring that assistance reaches its intended beneficiaries without political interference.
Over the years, multiple human rights organizations have reported malnutrition, forced disappearances, and other abuses in the Tindouf camps. Activists continue to demand accountability for those responsible and urge the international community to take decisive action to prevent further suffering.
As the crisis worsens, rights groups stress the need for urgent reforms to protect camp residents and prevent the misuse of humanitarian aid.
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