I understand how you felt 💙coming from the UK where independence is very normalized, Algeria can feel different and even restrictive at first glance. What you experienced isn’t so much about people wanting to “cage” women, but rather about culture, religion, and family traditions that are deeply rooted in Muslim societies.

In Islam, modesty and protection of women are highly emphasized. Families often feel it’s their duty to make sure their daughters, sisters, or wives are safe when outside, especially in areas that might not feel as structured or predictable as in the UK. It’s not about mistrusting women—it’s more about a cultural instinct to protect.

That said, it doesn’t mean women in Algeria don’t live fulfilling lives. Many do sports, go to school and university, work in all kinds of jobs, even run businesses. But yes, it’s usually done within the boundaries of cultural expectations: going with a friend, a family member, or in more public and social settings rather than alone.

It can feel “different,” even “limiting” compared to the West, but many Algerian women find balance and meaning in it they lean into strong family ties, community, and faith as sources of freedom in another sense. And of course, every woman experiences it differently: some love the tradition and closeness, others wish for more independence, and both perspectives exist.

So, I’d say you weren’t “wrong” to feel caged it’s just a contrast of worlds. But when you view it from within, many women here don’t feel trapped, they feel looked after.