Ambassadors Roundtable Series- Algeria Event Summary

As part of the Ambassador Roundtable Series on International Collaboration to Combat Terrorism and Insurgencies, The Homeland Security Policy Institute and the International Center for Terrorism Studies co-hosted Ambassador Amine Kherbi, from Algeria, on May 5, 2008.

The citizens of Algeria have faced the challenge of fighting terrorism within the country’s borders since the turbulent 1990s. Ambassador Kherbi emphasized that globalization, coupled with ties between terrorism and organized crime, present new challenges for counterterrorist efforts.

Algeria seeks to build a collective and cooperative global response to terrorism. “This vision,” said the Ambassador, “shapes our response and represents Algeria’s solid cooperation— Algeria remains highly vigilant and pro-active, collaborating and sharing its experience with its international partners.” Algeria’s security is dependent on the security of its neighbors and the rest of the world, and vice versa. He also noted that political will and strong commitment by all nations are imperative for the long-term fight against terrorism.

Algeria maintains an ongoing dialogue with Europe and NATO and takes a leadership role on terrorism issues in the Arab League of Nations, the Organization of Islamic States, and the African Union. Of particular note, Algeria hosts the African Union’s Center for the Study and Research of Terrorism in Algiers. Further, bilateral cooperation with the United States in order to combat terrorism has been at an all-time high since the September 11 attacks.

The Ambassador observed that policies to combat and prevent terrorism that are pursued collectively must address both security and development with the same intensity. Kherbi emphasized that, “we cannot rely on the military component only if it is to have lasting effect.” Strong institutions, including in the political and judicial realms, are crucial for both democracy and security. He went on to recognize the importance of the participation of the media in accordance with strong institutions: “the press should be stronger—this is our hope.”

Noteworthy government initiatives include the introduction of a Charter for Peace and National Reconciliation, and the authorities’ encouragement of the teaching of both religion and critical thinking skills in the educational system.

The Ambassador Roundtable Series is designed to provide Ambassadors to the United States and their key diplomatic staff with a forum to discuss current and future counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts on a regional or country-specific basis. In an effort to draw upon various insights and experiences, the Ambassadors Roundtable Series builds upon and institutionalizes efforts over the past two years to engage in a dialogue with members of the international community, policy makers, and practitioners.

Algeria Resources

For further inquries, please email hspi1@gwumc.edu with the subject Ambassadors Roundtable Series Inquiries