The organization does not grade countries according to their human rights record but concentrates on ending specific violations. This document summarizes Amnesty International's concerns in one of these countries, Algeria, and includes one appeal case which illustrates some of Amnesty International's concerns in that country. Amnesty International urges all governments, whether members or observers, attending the Commission to take up this appeal case as well as Amnesty International's recommendations in their bilateral and multilateral meetings with government representatives of Algeria. Where the Commission adopts a resolution, takes a decision or its Chair makes a statement on the human rights situation in Algeria, specific action should also be taken to address the violations in the appeal case. Scores of civilians were also victims of bomb attacks.
Impunity remains a serious concern.
As in previous years, the Algerian authorities stated that scores of members of security forces and of state-armed militias had been brought to justice for serious human rights violations, including murder, abduction and rape. However, they continue to refuse to provide any information on the cases, including the names of those convicted and details of their trial and the sentences imposed. In February 1998, two militia chiefs, who were also mayors of the main government party, were arrested for murder, abduction, extortion and other crimes committed since 1995. However, they were promptly released and have not been brought to trial. During 1998 violations reportedly committed by the security forces in previous years were confirmed.