Amnesty International Condemns Algeria for Forcibly Deporting Tunisian MP Seifeddine Makhlouf

Amnesty International has condemned Algeria for forcibly deporting former Tunisian MP Seifeddine Makhlouf to Tunisia, despite his registered asylum seeker status with the UNHCR, Arab News reported. The organization described the move as refoulement and a violation of international law.

Sarah Hachach, Amnesty’s Deputy Regional Director for MENA, said Makhlouf was handed over without a chance to challenge the decision or assess risks, including arbitrary detention and unfair trial. She called on Algeria to uphold its obligations under the 1951 Refugee Convention and implement safeguards for asylum seekers.

Amnesty also urged Tunisian authorities to drop all charges, noting they relate to Makhlouf’s peaceful exercise of rights, warning that the deportation occurs amid an intensifying crackdown on opposition in Tunisia.

The organization highlighted Algeria’s broader pattern of mass expulsions and arbitrary detention of migrants, emphasizing the country lacks a comprehensive asylum framework despite ratifying the 1951 Refugee Convention. Makhlouf’s detention in Tunisia has sparked human rights concern, with many calling him a political prisoner and warning the deportation threatens his safety.