Understanding the Persistence of Competitive Authoritarianism in Algeria

The book explores the secrets behind the Algerian regimes survival and the pillars of its longevity, identifying Algerias authoritarianism as a competitive and adaptable kind that has allowed the regime to persist in the face of change. It contributes to a broader area of study concerned with competitive authoritarianism and the nature of political institutions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

The book "The Algerian Regime: Survival and Longevity" delves into the secrets behind the Algerian regimes survival and the pillars of its longevity. It sheds light on the authoritarian consolidation that has occurred in Algeria and why it is likely to continue despite the departure of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and the emergence of a new actor, the popular movement known as Hirak. The author argues that Algerias authoritarianism is a distinctively competitive and adaptable kind, which has allowed the regime to persist in the face of various changes. The book analyzes Algerias situation and the regime's persistence far from the premise of a trend towards democratization. It contributes to a broader area of study concerned with "competitive authoritarianism," regimes that face domestic resistance, the question of what and how compels such regimes to change, the nature of their political institutions, and more.

The book begins by examining the historical background of Algeria, including its colonial past, the struggle for independence, and the establishment of the one-party state under the leadership of the National Liberation Front (FLN). It highlights the role of the FLN in consolidating its power and maintaining control over the country. The author then explores the various mechanisms that the Algerian regime has used to maintain its grip on power, including repression, corruption, and the manipulation of the media and the judiciary.

One of the key pillars of the Algerian regime's longevity is its ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The author argues that the regime has been able to respond to challenges and crises by implementing reforms and making concessions to the opposition. For example, the regime has allowed for the establishment of a multiparty system and has held elections, although these elections have been criticized for their lack of transparency and fairness.

However, the author also notes that the Algerian regime has been characterized by a high level of repression and violence. The regime has used torture, disappearances, and extrajudicial killings to suppress dissent and maintain control. This has led to a significant human rights crisis in the country, with thousands of people killed and injured over the years.

Despite these challenges, the Algerian regime has remained in power for over 50 years. The author argues that this is due to a combination of factors, including the regime's ability to adapt to changing circumstances, its control over the military and security forces, and its ability to control the media and the judiciary.

One of the key factors that has contributed to the regime's longevity is its control over the military and security forces. The Algerian army is one of the largest in Africa, and it has been used to suppress dissent and maintain control over the country. The regime has also used the security forces to target political opponents and to carry out assassinations.

The author also notes that the Algerian regime has been able to control the media and the judiciary. The regime has used censorship and propaganda to control the media, and it has also used the judiciary to prosecute political opponents and to suppress dissent.

However, the author also notes that the Algerian regime has faced significant challenges in recent years. The Arab Spring uprisings in Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya have inspired a wave of protests in Algeria, and the regime has responded with a crackdown on dissent. This has led to a significant increase in the number of political prisoners in the country, and it has also led to a decline in the regime's popularity.

Despite these challenges, the Algerian regime is likely to continue to exist in the future. The author argues that the regime has a strong base of support among the military and security forces, and it has a strong economic base. The regime has also been able to maintain control over the media and the judiciary, and it has been able to use these institutions to suppress dissent and maintain control.

However, the author also notes that the Algerian regime is facing significant challenges in the future. The country's economy is in crisis, and the regime's control over the media and the judiciary is being challenged by a new generation of activists and journalists. The regime's response to these challenges will likely determine its future.

In conclusion, the book "The Algerian Regime: Survival and Longevity" sheds light on the secrets behind the Algerian regimes survival and the pillars of its longevity. It highlights the authoritarian consolidation that has occurred in Algeria and why it is likely to continue despite the departure of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and the emergence of a new actor, the popular movement known as Hirak. The book analyzes Algerias situation and the regime's persistence far from the premise of a trend towards democratization. It contributes to a broader area of study concerned with "competitive authoritarianism," regimes that face domestic resistance, the question of what and how compels such regimes to change, the nature of their political institutions, and more.

Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031051043
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022