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.
Raouf Mellal: Trade Union Pluralism, Article 87 bis, and the Relationship Between Independent Unions and the International Trade Union Confederation"rel="bookmark">Raouf Mellal: Trade Union Pluralism, Article 87 bis, and the Relationship Between Independent Unions and the International Trade Union Confederation
In an interview with Radio des sans voix, Raouf Mellal, President of the Trade Union Confederation of Productive Forces (COSYFOP), addressed three major challenges facing trade union work in Algeria today: the myth of official trade union pluralism and its impact on independent unions, the risks posed by Article 87 bis of the Penal Code, COSYFOP’s international action on this issue, and the troubled relationship between Algerian independent unions and the International Trade Union Confederation […]
May 1, 2026 Statement: Trade Union Confederation of Productive Forces Denounces Escalating Repression of Trade Union Freedoms in Algeria"rel="bookmark">May 1, 2026 Statement: Trade Union Confederation of Productive Forces Denounces Escalating Repression of Trade Union Freedoms in Algeria
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the Trade Union Confederation of Productive Forces issued a strong statement expressing its firm rejection of the continued restrictions on trade union freedoms in Algeria, warning of the serious risks posed by systematic policies aimed at weakening independent trade unionism and hollowing it out. The statement highlights what it describes as “formal trade union pluralism in Algeria,” presented as an achievement to the international community, while in reality it serves […]
Disruption of the SNAPAP Congress: A Clear Violation of Trade Union Freedom and an Attempt to Undermine Internal Unity"rel="bookmark">Disruption of the SNAPAP Congress: A Clear Violation of Trade Union Freedom and an Attempt to Undermine Internal Unity
In an official statement, the National Autonomous Union of Public Administration Personnel (SNAPAP) announced the postponement of its national congress, originally scheduled for 10–12 April 2026 in Algiers, due to the failure of the competent authorities of the Wilaya of Algiers to respond to a duly filed authorization request submitted in full compliance with legal procedures. It is worth recalling that SNAPAP is one of the unions affiliated with the Trade Union Confederation of Productive Forces […]
Government Briefing on Migrant Labour in Algeria"rel="bookmark">Government Briefing on Migrant Labour in Algeria
In an official statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office on 21 April 2026, a government meeting chaired by Mr. Seifi Ghrieb was announced. The meeting was devoted to examining a number of socio-economic issues, including a draft executive decree on social security reimbursements, as well as a presentation on the employment of foreign labour in Algeria. From a trade union perspective […]
🎯 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 🔸
📘 Click here to view all questions
🟠 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.