We didn't have the expertise. We didn't have the time. Most of the allegations against both sides in the Algerian conflict were well known before the group visited the country for two weeks this summer. Although Islamic radicals are widely blamed in Algeria for massacres as well as widespread intimidation and violence against women, the team came away convinced that there was no political rationale for the terrorism, a viewpoint fostered by the Government, which has sought to separate the terrorist attacks from the thwarted 1992 elections. Testimony from women also indicated that Islamic conservatives who support the Government have been allowed to prevent family laws from being reformed substantially.
Islamic fundamentalism is thus prevalent on both sides, human rights groups say.
Since the visit of the team, the Algerian President, Liamine Zeroual, has announced that a presidential election will be held before next spring, but there is little likelihood that banned Islamic organizations will be able to take part. In Washington, Human Rights Watch called for a ''proper investigation'' into massacre reports. In recent days, at least 40 people have been reported killed in Algeria in massacre-style attacks. The team was told by Algerian citizens that ''ill-treatment and torture'' are frequent in police custody. The report also noted the controls and pressures the Government puts on the press and raised questions about the dangers of arming civilians for self-protection.