A group of United Nations independent human rights experts has called on Algeria to immediately release journalist Ihsane El Kadi, arguing that his detention violates international human rights standards.
According to the experts:
- El Kadi was detained because of his journalistic work and his exercise of freedom of expression.
- They expressed concern over the use of criminal charges against journalists and urged Algeria to ensure that media professionals can work without fear of retaliation.
- They also called for his conviction to be reviewed and for his rights to due process and freedom of expression to be respected.
Ihsane El Kadi, the founder of the independent media outlets Radio M and Maghreb Émergent, was arrested in late 2022. In 2023, he was sentenced on charges related to receiving foreign funding and harming state security—charges that Algerian authorities maintain were based on violations of national law. His supporters and several international rights organizations argue that the case was politically motivated and linked to his reporting.
The UN experts' statement is not legally binding, but it reflects the concerns of independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council. Algeria has consistently defended its judicial process, stating that its courts act independently and that prosecutions are conducted in accordance with domestic law.