Logos of Some Unions Affiliated with COSYFOP
What we do
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Defending independent trade unionists
We support trade unionists who are victims of administrative or judicial repression, and provide them with legal and media assistance.
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International advocacy
We engage with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations to document violations and submit official complaints.
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Training in rights and freedoms
We organize training courses and workshops to raise workers' awareness of their rights and enhance their union capabilities.
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Advocating for Legislative Reform
We carry out advocacy campaigns and send formal communications to demand legal reforms that respect trade union freedom.
A Scandal Shakes the Credibility of the Algerian Red Crescent" rel="bookmark">A Scandal Shakes the Credibility of the Algerian Red Crescent
In light of the rapidly unfolding developments surrounding the case of the head of the Algerian Red Crescent, Ibtissam Hamlaoui, and the serious accusations made by Yacine Ben Chattah regarding the mismanagement of humanitarian aid provided by the International Committee of the Red Cross, along with his claims of torture and ill-treatment during his detention, concerns are mounting about the extent of respect for human rights and transparency within […]
A serious escalation against trade union freedoms in Algeria" rel="bookmark">A serious escalation against trade union freedoms in Algeria
The Confederation of Trade Unions of Productive Forces (COSYFOP) condemned the verdict issued on October 29, 2025, by the Oum El Bouaghi court, sentencing Algerian trade unionist Ali Maamri, president of the National Union of Cultural Sector Employees (SNFC), to 15 years in prison on charges of “praising terrorism.” This verdict came after more than seven months of arbitrary detention, during which he was held incommunicado.
Trial of Trade Unionist Ali Mammeri on 29 October 2025" rel="bookmark">Trial of Trade Unionist Ali Mammeri on 29 October 2025
Algerian trade unionist Ali Mammeri will appear before the Oum El Bouaghi court tomorrow, October 29, 2025, after more than seven months of arbitrary detention. He was arrested at his workplace on March 19 and held incommunicado for several days, during which he claims to have been tortured. He will be tried on charges of «publishing or broadcasting information or documents via electronic or […]
Algeria Fails to Keep Its UN Human Rights Council Seat, Underscoring a Deepening Human Rights Crisis" rel="bookmark">Algeria Fails to Keep Its UN Human Rights Council Seat, Underscoring a Deepening Human Rights Crisis
A firm international message about its deteriorating human rights record. In a secret ballot conducted by the United Nations General Assembly on October 14, 2025, in New York, Algeria failed to retain its seat on the Human Rights Council for the period 2026–2028, after the end of its previous term, which extended from 2023 to 2025. The official results published by the United Nations website show that Algeria was not re-elected, […]
🎯 Watch our message and goals in less than 3 minutes
🎥 Learn about the Confederation of Productive Forces (COSYFOP)
This video provides an overview of the confederation's vision, history, and key struggles for trade union freedoms and workers' rights in Algeria. It was produced as part of a media campaign to support independent unions and raise public awareness of COSYFOP's goals.
🔸 Frequently Asked Questions 🔸
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🟠 Membership and Organizing
1. How do I join the Confederation?
You can join as an individual member or initiate the creation of an independent trade union in your sector by filling out the membership form available on our website. Once your request is reviewed, the Organizing Committee will contact you.
2. Are you legally accredited?
Yes, the Confederation has been officially registered since 1991 under number 30, and its legal existence is based on Law 90-14. It was restructured in 2018 and is currently led by Brother Raouf Mellal.
3. Who is entitled to establish a sectoral union within the Confederation?
Any professional group comprising at least 15 permanent workers in the same sector may be established and joined, provided that the internal laws of the Confederation are respected.
4. Do you represent all states?
Yes, we strive to ensure nationwide representation through the independent trade unions affiliated with the Confederation.
5. Can I establish an independent trade union in my workplace?
Yes, Algerian law allows this, provided the required number of founders is met and the incorporation file is submitted to the labor inspectorate. We provide technical and legal support at all stages.
🟠 Formation and support
6. Does the Confederation provide training or courses?
Yes, we organize training workshops on union rights, fundamental freedoms, and international advocacy mechanisms, in cooperation with international training centers.
7. Do you provide legal support to members?
Yes, we provide legal advice and support in cases of unfair dismissal or disputes with administrations, depending on the case and capabilities.
8. What is the difference between a confederation and a sectoral union?
A union represents a specific sector, while a confederation is a coordinating body of different unions working in solidarity within a unified framework.
🟠 Special categories
9. Can an informal or unemployed worker engage?
Yes, they can join through designated unions or support committees, as we firmly believe in every worker’s right to trade union representation, regardless of their employment status.
10. Who is meant by the informal sector? And can they participate?
The informal sector includes those who work outside legal protection, such as street vendors and workers without contracts. We work to organize and represent them through unions.
11. Are merchants entitled to join the Confederation?
Yes, they can establish independent unions to defend their interests, especially in light of tax pressures and the lack of effective union representation.
12. Do retirees have the right to unionize within the Confederation?
Yes, they can join retiree committees within their sectors, and these committees unite within an independent national federation to defend their rights.
🟠 Principles and International Relations
13. Do you belong to international organizations?
Yes, we have partnerships and coordination with international organizations such as the International Labor Organization and international human rights bodies.
14. Do your activities include environmental issues and refugee rights?
We participate in initiatives to protect refugees and victims of deportation, and support environmental campaigns, particularly those related to social justice.
15. Do you belong to any political party?
No. We are a completely independent trade union organization, rejecting party affiliation and relying on the principles of trade union independence.