The right to strike is subject to new rules considered restrictive by autonomous unions in Algeria. In fact, staff working in certain sectors considered strategic are no longer authorized to strike.
These new restrictions on the right to strike particularly affect the security, defense, justice and customs sectors. In these sectors, the creation of unions is now prohibited. In addition, other professions such as air and maritime controllers, imams and school directors are also affected by this ban.
The objective of these measures, according to the implementing texts, is to guarantee the continuity of essential public services and to preserve the supply of essential needs of the country and the population. Indeed, the interruption of these services could endanger the lives, safety or health of citizens, or even lead to a serious crisis.
In addition, in sectors where strikes are authorized, a minimum service is now required. This minimum service must represent at least 30% of the total number of workers affected by the strike. The sectors affected by this measure include public health, pharmaceutical production, air transport, telecommunications and the media.
These new rules are causing controversy among independent unions. The latter believe that this limits the right of workers to strike and organize, thus compromising their ability to defend their rights and interests.
It is important to emphasize that this relaxation of the right to strike aims to guarantee the proper functioning of strategic sectors and to prevent the harmful consequences of an interruption of services for the population. However, it is necessary to find a balance between protecting the general interest and respecting workers’ rights.
In conclusion, the new rules restricting the right to strike in strategic sectors in Algeria are causing debate and controversy. If on the one hand they aim to maintain the continuity of essential public services, on the other they limit the right of workers to assert their demands. Finding a balance between these two aspects is essential to preserve workers’ rights while ensuring the smooth functioning of the country.