History

The National Order of Merit was founded by President Chadli Bendjedid in 1984 and is the highest honour awarded in Algeria. It is conferred upon Algerian citizens in recognition of extraordinary public, civil, or military service rendered to the nation, as well as for services rendered to the Revolution. It is also conferred in recognition of meritorious actions and services which have contributed to the international prestige of Algeria. It may be conferred posthumously.

The Order is composed of three dignitaries (Sadr, Amid, Athir) and three grades (Ahid, Djadir, Achir) along with an extra category for foreign heads of state. The President holds the title of Sadr.

This award is the only grade that may be awarded to foreigners. The badge is suspended from a collar composed of alternating gold and enamelled links. The obverse inscription translates to "Allah, Algeria."