Disability in Algeria

One of the earliest descriptions of people using sign language occurs during the 4th century in Tagaste, which was located in what is now modern Algeria.[1]

Early traditional views of people with blindness in countries in North Africa involved beliefs that it was based on family curses or djinn.[2] Communities provided for the poor and people with disabilities through a special social tax called a zakât.[3] Families also believed that marabouts could heal sick or disabled children, though marabouts, who used "mystical practices" were later denounced in 1930s.[3]

In the early 20th century, the French had an influence on Algeria in relationship to helping people with blindness.[3] A training workshop for people with blindness was created in Algiers in 1902.[4] Later, schools for teaching Braille were also created in Algiers.[4] Many children who were blind were sent to France to study on various scholarships.[4]

In the 1940s, the government gave money to Muslim charities to help aid individuals with disabilities.[5] Schools and institutions often favored the French and European individuals as opposed to the native Muslim Algerians.[6] In the late 1940s, blind Algerians, such as André Balliste, fought for their rights.[7] They were able to finally secure full rights in 1951.[7]

In the 1950s, individuals could be issued a disability or blindness card which allowed them access to various accommodations.[8]

In a 2006 survey, it was found that the rate of disability in Algeria was higher among men than in women.[9] Overall, the survey found that the rate of disability in the population overall is around 2.5 percent.[9] A 2017 survey found that 1.3 percent of the population has a developmental disability.[10]

Individuals with disabilities often have a higher rate of poverty in Algeria.[11]

Landmines, which were placed in Algeria during World War II and from other conflicts have caused physical disabilities in the country.[12][13]

The Algerian government has passed laws which prevent discrimination against people with disabilities.[14] The Ministry of Vocational Training and Education works to provide equal access to all groups of people, including people with disabilities to work and get vocational education.[15]

People who have disability benefits in Algeria receive funds based on the extent of their disability.[16] There is also a 100% grant for people with full disability under La Pension Handicapée.[17]

Algeria is a member of the League of Arab States and signed onto the 2004 Arab Charter on Human Rights.[18] Article 40 recognizes the human rights of people with disabilities.[18] Algeria submitted an initial report on their progress in implementing the rights for people with disabilities in 2009.[19]

Algeria's National Office for Assistive Devices works to obtain, create and distribute necessary physical and technical aids to people with disabilities.[21] Several of the country's ministries work with the National Commission on Accessibility to monitor implementation of building and public space accessibility.[29]

Transport in Algeria has been modified to provide physical accessibility in several ways. Metro platforms have direct access for people with physical disabilities and provide special seating and room to maneuver on trains.[30] Edges of platforms are marked with tactile paving.[31] Similar modifications have been made on buses.[31]

Blindness in many Muslim countries does not affect the social status of the individual.[2]