Comprehensive Sexuality Education

1. Context and background

In Algeria, efforts have been made in recent years to introduce sexuality education in schools. In 2018, the Ministry of Education proposed the introduction of sexuality education in schools’ curricula. However, the proposal faced controversy and rejection by the public and religious leaders. The minister refuted the news, but the consensus on social media was that the proposed programme was considered to contradict the traditional values and customs of Algerian society. As a counter-proposal, it was suggested that there be a re-teaching of Sharia law, which would teach sexuality education within the framework of socially acceptable and religious norms and values (UNFPA 2020).

Currently, there is no sexuality education in schools.

2. Terminology

No consistent terminology was found in the policy or programme documents in relation to how Algeria addresses or names sexuality education.

3. Laws and policies

3.1. Relevant international/regional agreements to which the country is a signatory

INTERNATIONAL
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) Accession date: 1996	Acknowledges the need to guarantee sexuality education free from discrimination and stereotypes, conveying gender equality values.
Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) Ratification date: 1993	Commits to the right to access appropriate health-related information.
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) Ratification date: 2009	Commits to the highest attainable standard of health for persons with disabilities.
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Ratification date: 1989	Acknowledges that the right to sexual and reproductive health is an integral part of the right to health.

3.2. Relevant national laws and policies mandating comprehensive sexuality education

The 2008 Education Act does not address sexuality education in schools; instead, it focuses on citizenship education. Citizenship education must include human rights and gender equality. Additionally, the act emphasizes the importance of teaching body awareness and promoting healthy physical development. Guidance and counselling are part of the national education syllabus, but the emphasis is on professional guidance and development.

The 2015 Government Policy on National Education does not mention incorporating sexuality education components into the educational system.