In a new achievement added to the Algerian Civil Protection’s rich record in the fields of humanitarian work and disaster response, the Algerian urban search and rescue team has been officially reclassified, in accordance with the international certificate of recognition and conformity issued by the United Nations International Advisory Board, which is responsible for coordinating search and rescue efforts around the world, INSARAG.
This international coronation comes after a distinguished professional career, as the Algerian Civil Protection had previously obtained the first certificate of recognition in 2017, confirming today, through the reclassification process, its continued ability to maintain the highest international standards and enhance its operational readiness.
The Algerian Heavy Urban Search and Rescue Division (HUSAR) underwent a thorough and comprehensive operational assessment by international experts accredited by 12 countries, in accordance with the strict rules approved by the United Nations International Search and Rescue Advisory Board. This assessment included various operational and organizational aspects, including command and management, search and rescue, medical support, and logistics, following the final exercise held in Algeria from April 14 to 17, 2026.
The Algerian team includes a distinguished elite consisting of 86 members of various ranks and specializations, including leadership and management teams, technical teams, search and rescue teams under the radar, facility evaluation engineers, prevention specialists, and experts in dealing with chemical hazards. They underwent an intensive theoretical and applied training program that lasted more than 2 years, inside and outside the country, under the supervision of local and international experts.
During the various evaluation phases, the Algerian team demonstrated a high level of professionalism, discipline, and readiness, enabling it to meet all required standards. It was classified as a heavy team internationally, out of 60 internationally ranked teams. This is a prestigious classification that reflects its ability to fully self-intervene for up to ten days in disaster areas, using its own capabilities.
This achievement is the culmination of the continuous efforts and systematic work made by the Algerian Civil Protection, and reflects the prestigious position it has come to occupy on the international scene, thanks to its effective participation in many relief operations across various countries of the world that have witnessed natural disasters.
This international recognition also confirms that Algeria, through its civil protection apparatus, has become a key player in the international disaster response system and a force for proposal and support in multilateral humanitarian action.
While this classification represents a pivotal milestone in the path of professionalism and excellence, it does not represent an end in itself. Rather, it constitutes an incentive to continue developing capabilities and enhancing readiness, in light of the ongoing support provided by public authorities to this vital body, ensuring that performance rises to the highest international levels and serves noble human values.
