Algeria
In 2017, with funding from the UK Embassy in Algiers, we launched a new programme working with the Algerian Parliament. This included inducting new MPs as well as providing guidance on how to communicate with constituents. WFD also linked MPs and staff in the Algerian parliament with counterparts in the UK, to learn and share experiences on how to strengthen parliamentary processes.
In 2019 WFD launched a programme to build on our previous engagements and further support the parliament in strengthening its legislative, oversight and representation functions, while also focusing on gender equality.
Our programmes
Helping combat violence against women in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
Background
In the Middle East and North Africa region, it is estimated that 35% of women experience some form of violence. Contributing factors that allow this norm to prevail include a lack of legislation that criminalises domestic violence, limited protection for women inside their homes, as well as a justice and a court system ill prepared to prosecute perpetrators and protect victims. Legislatures can play a crucial role in establishing a legal environment that protects women.
Programme objectives
WFD supports women’s political participation and leadership so they can influence decision-making and bring about positive change. From 2012, WFD’s support to women MPs across the Middle East and North Africa has focused on effective leadership and encouraging women MPs to use their political influence for legislative change that eradicates discrimination against women and girls in the region.
Completed programmes
The Supporting Open and Inclusive Democratic Institutions in Algeria programme supported the modernisation of parliamentary support services by working with members of parliament and trained staff in core functions of the parliament. Additionally, the programme worked with the parliament to improve its transparency and outreach, to increase the participation of civil society and citizens, and to strengthen gender and human rights mainstreaming.
The programme promoted greater transparency in the functioning of Algerian parliament and more effective citizen involvement. WFD worked with the National People’s Assembly (APN) (the lower house of parliament) and the Council of the Nation (the upper house), to exercise their policy and legislative roles more inclusively and effectively. This programme also helped to and strengthen relations between the Algerian and UK parliaments.
Key results
Worked with the Parliament to be more transparent and accountable.
The Parliament has improved its staff’s capacities and processes in purchasing goods and services in a fair and open way.
Strengthened political skills and public profile of women MPs
With active WFD support, Algeria has become an active member of the Coalition of Women Parliamentarians from Arab Countries to Combat Violence against Women. Two staff members are fully involved in the design of activities and in the development of the coalition’s strategy.
Collaborated with the Parliament on its communication
Parliament made and is making efforts to improve public knowledge of its operations and showed interest in understanding how to involve the public in its work by developing, with the support of WFD, a communication and outreach strategy.
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