SHOAA raises alarm over surge in anti-migrant hate speech in Algeria

The human rights organization SHOAA has expressed “deep concern” over the alarming rise in hate speech, racism, and incitement to violence targeting Sub-Saharan African migrants in Algeria, amid growing diplomatic tensions between Algeria and Mali.

In a statement, SHOAA said it has observed a worrying spread of racist rhetoric, particularly on social media platforms, where such content is being widely shared — and in some cases amplified by public or political figures. The organization warned that this dynamic is fueling hatred and discrimination within Algerian society.

SHOAA strongly condemned all forms of racism and hate speech, asserting that any incitement based on color, origin, or legal status is a clear violation of international human rights principles. The group emphasized that human dignity must never be politicized and that safeguarding it is a collective responsibility.

The organization highlighted the vulnerability of African migrants in Algeria, who often live in precarious conditionsand are now being singled out in public discourse, threatening their safety and violating Algeria’s international commitments—particularly the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

In response, SHOAA urged Algerian authorities to:

• Take urgent measures to stop hate speech and incitement in both the media and on social platforms.

• Ensure the protection and legal rights of Sub-Saharan migrants in line with national and international law.

• Prosecute individuals responsible for inciting hate or calling for illegal expulsions.

SHOAA also appealed to the United Nations, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and international human rights organizations to urgently intervene, monitor the situation, and provide protection mechanisms for Sub-Saharan African migrants and refugees in Algeria. The organization stressed the importance of ensuring Algeria’s compliance with its international human rights obligations.