As the two largest countries in its southern neighbourhood struggle, Europe faces a heightened threat of instability and authoritarianism. Libya is highly unstable, torn apart by the civil war and is now under the strong influence of Turkey – a country that is heavily involved in the conflict. Algeria is facing civil unrest and discontent due to limits on freedom of expression and religion, something which Parliament addressed its resolution of 28 November 2019 on the situation of freedoms in Algeria (1) .

The Algerian Government is increasing its grip and is conducting acts of suppression using emergency lockdown measures. This is particularly the case in the region of Kabylie, where there are a significant number of protests since, according to the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples’ Organisation, it is an ’occupied territory’ (2) . The region is therefore seeking more autonomy, not to mention the fact that it is home to a large number of Christians, who suffer persecution. Algeria is improving its relations with Turkey, which provides support to the army so it can maintain order in the country. The socio-economic impact of the current crisis will only exacerbate the crises of these fragile economies, which depend heavily on oil.

Does the VP/HR plan to take any action in the Maghreb so that the repercussions of the above are not felt at the EU’s border, in particular in Algeria where the government is more functional?