Vintage UGTA (Union Générale des Travailleurs Algériens / General Union of Algerian Workers) badge, connected with one of the major organizations of the Algerian struggle for independence from France.

The UGTA was founded in Algiers on 24 February 1956, during the Algerian War of Independence (1954–1962). Closely associated with the FLN (Front de Libération Nationale / National Liberation Front), the organization mobilized Algerian workers and became an important part of the political and labor struggle against French colonial rule.

The badge features the UGTA emblem with a handshake, red star and the national colors of Algeria. Around the upper part is the organization's name in Arabic:

الاتحاد العام للعمال الجزائريين

The reverse is marked VEB PRÄWEMA / R.D.A., showing that the badge was manufactured in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany / GDR). This East German manufacture adds an interesting Cold War dimension to an Algerian historical and political collectible.

Details:

• Organization: UGTA — General Union of Algerian Workers
• Algeria
• Associated historically with the FLN and Algerian independence movement
• Algerian War / War of Independence era organization
• Made in East Germany (GDR / DDR)
• Maker marked VEB PRÄWEMA / R.D.A.
• Heavy metal construction
• Multicolor enamel
• Approx. 20 mm maximum diameter
• Original horizontal pin fastening

Condition:
Very good vintage condition with no defects. The front enamel is well preserved. Natural age-related patina and oxidation are visible on the reverse. Original pin fastening is intact.