Prospects for a Real Democratic Transition in Algeria: Facts and Challenges

Abstract

This paper attempts to provide a cursory perspective on the Algerian democratic transition that mirrored the previous setback from social, economic and political angles. It assesses Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s rule and analyzes the underlying reasons that triggered the massive demonstrations since February 2019. By shedding lights on the past social upheavals fueled by unemployment, housing crisis and deep social disintegration, the article explains how Boutaklika’s government, which challenges a genuine democratic shift, failed to overcome people’s mounting resentment and meet its aspirations for long-term. It also proceeds to put forward ideas for possible alternatives regarding the prospects for a peaceful democratic switch based on consensual dialogues, social justice, and equality.