For an explanation of how to read this resource, please refer to the guide at the bottom.
AI Regulation
Originally launched in 2019, Algeria’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2020-2030 (the “AI Strategy”) was updated most recently in 2023 to expand its pillars. It is reported that the six pillars now include: advancing research and innovation, enhancing skills development, investing in infrastructure, promoting Algeria’s AI ecosystem, establishing a strong regulatory framework, and focusing on priority sectors.1
Definitions of AI
In the absence of publicly available official instruments on AI regulation in the country, including the AI Strategy, we have not verified the existence of any definitions of AI.
Core Principles
In the absence of publicly available official instruments on AI regulation in the country, we have not verified the existence of any core AI principles.
Public Consultations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of invitations for public input on AI governance in the country. However, it is reported that in 2019, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research convened a workshop to develop a ‘National Strategic Plan for Artificial Intelligence 2020–2030’.2
Also, following the launch of the AI Strategy in 2019 and subsequent updates, Algeria’s AI Council assembled participants, including government representatives, AI specialists and other stakeholders, in late 2024, to plan the execution of the 2025-2030 phase of the AI Strategy.3
Existing Legal Framework
A non-exhaustive list of regulations that might impact AI in the country includes:
- Constitution of Algeria4
- Digital Algeria 2030 (Algérie Numérique 2030)5
- Post and Electronic Communications Law (Law No. 18-04 of 10 May 2018)6
- Personal Data Protection Law (Law No. 18-07 of 10 June 2018)7
- Cybercrime Law (Law no. 09-04 of 5 August 2009)8
- Consumer Protection Law (Law No. 09-03 of 25 February 2009)9
Human Rights
The UDHR was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1948. Its principles are considered universal and applicable to all UN member states. As a member of the UN, Algeria has committed to upholding the principles of the UDHR. The Constitution of Algeria includes provisions that protect fundamental human rights.10 Article 47 guarantees the right to privacy (protection of private life, confidentiality of correspondence and private communications, and protection regarding personal data). Other protections include the rights to equality and non-discrimination (Article 37), life (Article 38), dignity (Article 39), freedom of expression (Article 52), and healthcare, education, and work (Articles 65, 68, and 69, respectively). Algeria has ratified several key international human rights instruments, including the ACHPR, ICCPR, and ICESCR. However, the country has not signed or ratified the Malabo Convention.
Regulators
A non-exhaustive list of regulators that might impact AI in the country includes:
- Ministry of Communication (Ministère de la Communication)11
- Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (Ministère de la Poste et des Télécommunications) (MPT)12
- Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (Ministère de l'Enseignement Supérieur de la Recherche Scientifique) (MESRS)13
- Ministry of Knowledge Economy, Startups, and Micro-Enterprises (Ministère de l'Economie de la Connaissance, Des Start-Up et des Micro-Entreprises) (MDME)14
- Regulatory Authority for Posts and Electronic Communications (Autorité de Régulation de la Poste et des Communications Electroniques) (ARPCE)15
- Directorate General for Scientific Research and Technological Development (Direction Générale de la Recherche Scientifique et du Développement Technologique) (DGRSDT)16
- National Authority for the Protection of Personal Data (Autorité Nationale de Protection des Données à Caractère Personnel) (ANPDP)17
- Algerian Institute of Standardisation (Institut Algérien de Normalisation) (IANOR)18
- Algerian Organisation for the Protection and Guidance of Consumers and their Environment (Organisation Algérienne pour la Protection et l'Orientation du Consommateur et son Environnement) (APOCE)19
- National Human Rights Council (Conseil National des Droits de l'Homme)
R&D and Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives
The Algeria Research Hub is funded by the United States (US) Department of State and the US embassy in Algeria.20 Its website is a repository of information and resources co-created by the National Higher School of Mathematics, the National Higher School of Artificial Intelligence, the Center for Advanced Technologies Development, and the Pulte Institute for Global Development at the University of Notre Dame.
Professional/Industry Associations
A non-exhaustive list of professional or industry associations with a focus on AI in the country includes:
- School of AI Algiers21
- AI for Algerian Women (part of the WomenTech Network)22
Additionally, the following are associations with a broad scope that could include AI:
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Algeria Section23
- Algerian-American Association for Science, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (AAASTE)24
Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups
On 26 June 2023, an AI Council was established.25 This scientific advisory body, created by MESRS in collaboration with MDME, includes Algerian and international experts from government, industry, and academia. Its goals are to provide recommendations for cross-sectoral AI strategy and to offer policy advice for the development of AI technology.
Guide
- AI Regulation: The term "regulation", as used in this resource, encompasses measures ranging from binding laws to national AI policies and strategies, government proposals, advisory guidelines, and industry standards that address AI systems and their implications.
- Existing Legal Framework: This section outlines the relevant legal framework, excluding any AI-specific regulations presented in the initial section.
- Human Rights: The following terms have the stated meanings: "ACHPR" means the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, "ICCPR" means the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, "ICESCR" means the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, "Malabo Convention" means the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, "UDHR" means the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and "UN" means the United Nations. Any reference to an “Article” or “Section” of the Constitution is to the version of the Constitution referenced herein.
- Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups: This section excludes legislative and parliamentary committees.
