Algerian parliamentary elections: How much political openness is possible?

Algeria is holding its parliamentary elections on Thursday, marking a significant moment in the nation’s political landscape. Seven years after the Hirak protests, which led to the downfall of long-time president Abdelaziz Bouteflika in 2019, the country is set to choose a new National Assembly. Current President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has framed the vote as part of a broader effort to rejuvenate political institutions. However, many analysts remain skeptical about whether this election will bring substantial changes to the political structure or lead to a transfer of power.

The election comes amid a backdrop of shifting priorities among Algerians, who are currently more focused on the national football team’s performance in the 2026 World Cup. The team recently secured a spot in the knockout stages, sparking widespread enthusiasm. This has created competition for public attention, with many citizens prioritizing the tournament over the election. Robin Frisch, head of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation’s office in Algiers, noted that while the election is an important political event, it faces challenges due to the concurrent interest in sports and the beginning of summer holidays.

Approximately 24.7 million Algerians are eligible to vote for the 407 members of the lower house, who will serve five-year terms. Political scientist Rachid Ouaissa from Philipps University in Marburg emphasized the significance of this election, noting that unlike the 2021 parliamentary vote—marked by low turnout and the lingering effects of the Hirak protests—this year shows signs of increased political engagement. He pointed out the presence of numerous independent candidates, suggesting that parts of Algerian society are viewing the parliament as a more active political platform.

Frisch echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the rise of independent candidates reflects both disillusionment with traditional political parties and emerging political mobilization. He described the People’s Assembly as Algeria’s most visible democratic institution, indicating that despite the limitations of the current political framework, there is still room for democratic processes to function.

Despite these developments, concerns persist regarding the overall democratic quality of Algeria’s political system. Organizations such as Freedom House classify the country as “not free,” citing the continued concentration of power in the hands of the presidency, military, and security apparatus. Similarly, the Bertelsmann Transformation Index suggests that hopes for meaningful reform have largely faded, with Algeria seemingly reverting to a political climate reminiscent of the period before the Arab Spring.

The return of several opposition parties following their boycott of the 2021 election has sparked mixed interpretations. While Frisch views this as a positive development, others, such as the Middle East Forum based in Philadelphia, argue that it is more a result of institutional pressures than genuine political openness. The introduction of a new political party law, which threatens to dissolve parties after two consecutive election boycotts, adds complexity to the situation. Some see the opposition’s return as a strategic move to influence policy from within the system rather than a reflection of renewed trust in the political process.

Critics have also raised doubts about recent electoral reforms, particularly the expanded powers granted to the electoral authority ANIE. These changes have drawn skepticism, as they could potentially affect the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. As the election approaches, all eyes are on voter turnout, which was historically low at just 23 percent in 2021. Any further decline could reinforce perceptions of widespread distrust in state institutions.

As Algeria moves forward with its parliamentary elections, the interplay between political aspirations and practical constraints will be crucial to observe. While the election represents a continuation of democratic procedures, the extent to which it can drive meaningful change remains uncertain. The outcome will depend on how effectively the newly elected assembly can navigate the complex dynamics of power and influence within the existing political framework.