appel à renforcer le front intérieur pour contrer les tentatives attentatoires à la sécurité identitaire
National Conference on the Promotion of Amazigh Identity in Algeria
The recent national conference in Algiers focused on the promotion of Amazigh identity and highlighted the essential need to strengthen domestic unity to counter threats to Algeria’s national identity. The event was opened by Mr. Si El Hachemi Assad, Secretary-General of the High Commission for Amazighity (HCA), who emphasized the importance of a robust national media front to defend against misinformation and cyberattacks aimed at undermining social cohesion and national integrity.
Key Discussions and Themes
The conference featured several scientific sessions addressing vital themes related to identity security, cultural diversity, and national unity. Among the notable speakers was researcher Mohamed Lahcen Zeghidi, who discussed the interplay between collective memory and national identity. He underscored that Algeria’s national memory includes fundamental elements such as Islam, Arabic, and Tamazight—a triad reflecting the nation’s cultural richness and a key to securing its identity.
Zeghidi articulated that this multidimensional memory is essential for fostering national belonging and harmony amid diversity. He advocated for investment in these foundational aspects to reinforce national unity.
University educator Farid Benramdane, who heads the Algerian Academy of Toponymy, proposed a multidimensional approach that considers the dynamic interaction between culture, politics, and institutions. His presentation titled "From Diversity to Identity Security: Tamazight, National Unity, and Governance Challenges in Building the Algerian Nation-State" examined how identity plurality can coexist with national unity, viewing diversity as a source of strength rather than division.
In the context of security, a representative from the National People’s Army (ANP) addressed the evolving threats facing national identity—emphasizing that these threats are no longer solely military but now impact the social and cultural fabric of the nation. He asserted that the ANP plays a crucial role in safeguarding Algeria’s national identity.
Further, a representative from the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) highlighted the importance of collaboration with security partners, media, and civil society to address the challenges of misinformation, hate speech, and rumors disseminated via modern communication technologies.
The Importance of Coordination
The conference participants agreed on the need for sustained vigilance and collective mobilization to defend national sovereignty and identity. They collectively recognized that the threats to national identity are multifaceted, requiring an integrated approach that combines cultural promotion with security strategies.
Calls were made for greater engagement from all societal sectors, reinforcing the idea that fostering Amazighity and enhancing national unity are not merely government responsibilities but collective societal imperatives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the national conference underscored the necessity of promoting Amazigh identity within the framework of national security. The diverse discussions facilitated a deeper understanding of how memory, culture, and identity interplay to form the backbone of Algeria’s social cohesion. The commitment to strengthen domestic unity and counter external challenges reflects a proactive stance in preserving the nation’s cultural heritage and integrity against evolving threats.
