Algeria’s Political Landscape in 2024: Human Rights Under Scrutiny Ahead of Elections

As Algeria navigates a pivotal year in its political trajectory, with presidential elections recently concluded in early September 2024, the international spotlight is increasingly focused on the state of human rights and civil liberties in the country. Despite being a key player in regional politics and a major energy supplier to Europe, Algeria continues to struggle with internal tensions around political freedom, civic space, and human rights. Amnesty International and other global watchdogs have raised alarm bells over ongoing government repression, casting a shadow over the legitimacy of its democratic processes.

Human Rights Concerns Ahead of Elections

Algeria has faced criticism for years regarding its handling of political dissent, especially in the aftermath of the 2019 Hirak protests, which saw millions of Algerians demanding democratic reforms and the ouster of long-time president Abdelaziz Bouteflika. While those protests achieved some immediate results, including Bouteflika’s resignation, the deep-rooted political crisis has persisted under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The 2024 elections were seen as a potential turning point for the country, but the lead-up to the polls was marred by significant restrictions on free expression, peaceful assembly, and the press​(Amnesty International)​(Africanews).

Amnesty International has been particularly vocal about these issues, highlighting the government’s crackdown on civil liberties. According to Amnesty, Algerian authorities have introduced a series of legal amendments to the penal code that have been used to silence opposition voices. Notably, political activists have been detained on charges related to terrorism, often seen as trumped-up accusations meant to stifle dissent. Journalists, activists, and members of civil society have found themselves at odds with the government, facing arbitrary arrests and prosecutions simply for expressing views contrary to those of the ruling elite​(Amnesty International).

In August 2024, authorities arrested dozens of political activists, including members of the suspended Democratic and Social Movement (MDS) and the Rally for Culture and Democracy (RCD), on vague charges linked to their activities and public statements. Activists like Yacine Mekireche, detained for social media posts critical of the government, exemplify the growing suppression of free speech. These arrests, and others like them, have created a climate of fear and intimidation, raising concerns about the fairness of the political process.

The Role of Media and Press Freedom

Press freedom in Algeria remains heavily constrained. Independent media outlets and journalists have borne the brunt of the government’s efforts to control the political narrative. Several high-profile journalists have been detained or harassed in the months leading up to the election. The detention of figures like Merzoug Touati and Mustapha Bendjama, known for their independent reporting, underscores the fragile state of media freedom in the country. These journalists have faced restrictions on their movement and have been subjected to legal pressures intended to curb their ability to report freely​(Amnesty International).

According to international organizations, the media landscape in Algeria is not conducive to transparent elections. The repression of independent journalism, coupled with the government’s tight control over state-run media, has fueled accusations of voter suppression and lack of transparency in the electoral process. Observers point to a broader effort by the authorities to maintain their grip on power through the manipulation of public discourse and by limiting the flow of uncensored information.

Post-Election Challenges and International Reactions

The results of the September 2024 presidential elections, which saw Tebboune re-elected with a significant majority, have done little to ease tensions. His opponents, including Abdelali Hassani Cherif of the Movement of Society for Peace and Youcef Aouchiche of the Front of Socialist Forces, questioned the legitimacy of the vote, citing widespread allegations of electoral fraud. The Independent Electoral Authority (ANIE), which oversaw the elections, was criticized for its role in what opposition candidates and observers described as inaccuracies and ambiguities in the voting process​(Africanews).

The low voter turnout—just 5.6 million out of nearly 24 million registered voters participated—further highlights the disillusionment of the Algerian public. Many citizens, particularly those who supported the Hirak movement, boycotted the election, viewing it as a sham orchestrated by the military-backed government to consolidate power. The lingering dissatisfaction with Tebboune’s administration and the continued protests against the government point to a profound political crisis that remains unresolved​(Africanews).

International human rights organizations and foreign governments have expressed concern over the state of democracy in Algeria. The crackdown on dissent, coupled with reports of election manipulation, has sparked widespread criticism from the global community. Calls for the release of political prisoners and an end to the repression of civic space have intensified in the wake of the elections, but the Algerian government has shown few signs of altering its course.

The Future of Algerian Politics

As Algeria moves forward, the challenges facing its political system are vast. The government’s reliance on oil and gas revenues has long shielded it from deeper scrutiny, particularly from European countries dependent on Algerian energy exports. However, the internal demand for greater democratic accountability, driven by young people and civil society, continues to grow. If Algeria is to achieve long-term political stability, it will need to address the demands for political reform and find a way to reconcile with a population that remains deeply skeptical of the political status quo.

The international community will also play a critical role in encouraging reforms. Diplomatic pressure, combined with support for human rights advocacy within Algeria, could help create an environment where dissent is tolerated and meaningful political participation is restored. Without such changes, the risk of ongoing unrest and instability will remain high.

In conclusion, Algeria’s 2024 elections have not provided the reset that many hoped for. Instead, they have revealed the deep fractures within the country’s political system and the enduring struggle for democratic freedom. How the government responds to these challenges will shape Algeria’s political future for years to come.