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.

The Sadr Breast Star may be worn in one of four ways: suspended from the collar, suspended from a 50mm wide neck ribbon, suspended from a 100mm wide sash, or pinned to the left breast. The obverse inscription translates to "Allah, Algeria."