The Criminal Protection of Tourists in Algeria: Legal Frameworks, Security Strategies, and Institutional Mechanisms for Sustainable Tourism Development

Tourism is a dynamic economic and cultural sector that plays a pivotal role in enhancing national revenue, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and generating employment opportunities.In Algeria, the growth of this sector has been periodically hindered by security challenges that undermine public confidence and limit foreign investment.This study provides an analytical examination of the criminal protection of tourists within the framework of Algerian law, emphasizing the legal, institutional, and operational mechanisms established to ensure the safety and rights of travelers.The paper explores the historical emergence of tourism policing in Algeria-dating back to the late 1950sand situates it within contemporary legislative developments and international norms on the protection of tourists.The discussion extends to the cooperation between the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Interior, and national security institutions in enforcing a comprehensive strategy that includes surveillance systems, specialized training for tourism police units, and coordination with local authorities.Furthermore, the study identifies how the deterioration of security in the Sahel region and the global rise of terrorism have impacted Algeria's tourism industry, particularly in the Sahara and southern regions.It critically assesses how legislative reforms, public communication strategies, and safety infrastructure have been utilized to restore trust and stimulate sustainable tourism.Ultimately, the paper argues that effective criminal protection of tourists is not limited to penal sanctions but extends to preventive frameworks rooted in governance, transparency, and inter-sectoral coordination.The establishment of a secure and ethically grounded tourism environment is essential for positioning Algeria as a competitive Mediterranean destination, capable of balancing economic growth with national security imperatives.