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Algeria’s President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has called on young Algerians living abroad in illegal or vulnerable situations to return home. The appeal was made during a cabinet meeting on Sunday. The government said many of these youth were misled by individuals who encouraged them to act against their country. They now face hardship, separation from their families and exploitation in low paid or degrading work.
The Algerian government said it will regularise the status of these young people if they come back. Officials stressed that those who left illegally could return without facing prosecution if they pledge not to repeat the offence. The initiative aims to provide a safe path home for tens of thousands of citizens who migrated in recent years. Data from the International Organization for Migration shows that about 54,000 Algerians reached Europe between 2020 and 2024.
The state said the measure excludes individuals involved in violent crimes, drug offences or arms trafficking. It also excludes anyone who collaborated with foreign security services to harm the country. Algerian consulates abroad will manage the return process and support affected citizens during their reintegration.
Officials said the decision seeks to protect young Algerians from criminal networks that target undocumented migrants. The government warned that many face exploitation and pressure from groups that profit from illegal movement. Authorities hope the new pathway will encourage young people to reclaim stability and reconnect with their families in Algeria.
Sources
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