NGO Voices Concern over Flagrant Violations in Tindouf Camps

The International Observatory for Peace, Democracy, and Human Rights (IOPDHR) issued “The Geneva Declaration”, in which it held Algeria responsible for the human rights abuses and the chaotic situation prevailing in Tindouf camps.
The Declaration was issued at an international conference on the sidelines of the 52nd UN Human Rights Council.
The document stated that, under the 1951 Refugee Convention, Algeria, as a host country, bears the responsibility of the camps set up on its territory and should provide protection for the population living there.
The text underscored that Algeria delegates the running of the camps to the polisario militia. In addition, the Algerian authorities are financing, supporting and arming the group, thus contributing to the creation of a state inside a state.
The observatory demanded that international organizations and fact-finding committees be given access to the camps to conduct a headcount of the population.
It also called for giving the camps’ population their legitimate rights, mainly free litigation, the creation of political parties, and the organization of peaceful demonstrations.
The NGO called for the improvement of basic services such as education and health.
It concluded by advocating for stopping “children’s recruitment” by the militia.