Algerian Youth Disengaged Ahead Of Presidential Elections

A youth point towards the ports in Algiers, Algeria, Monday, July 29, 2024. The young people who make up more than half of Algeria's population are so disenchanted that they may not vote in next month

In Algeria, a significant portion of the population, particularly the youth, is expressing disillusionment with the upcoming presidential elections. Many young Algerians, who played a pivotal role in the 2019 protests that led to the ousting of former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, are now disengaged from the political process.

One 28-year-old from Kabylia, representing the sentiments of many, has stated his decision not to vote in the upcoming elections due to a perceived lack of meaning in the electoral system. The prevailing belief among disenchanted youth is that election outcomes are predetermined, diminishing the significance of participating in what they view as a political charade.

Young Algerians feel unrepresented by existing political structures.

Youth disengagement from political process in Algeria.

Skepticism remains high regarding President Tebboune's appeal to youth.

Experts point to a disconnect between the older political elite, some of whom have been in power since Algeria's independence, and the younger generation. This gap has contributed to a sense of alienation among young people, who feel unrepresented by the existing political structures.

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who is seeking a second term, has attempted to appeal to the youth demographic by positioning himself as a candidate for the younger generation. However, skepticism remains high, with concerns about the legitimacy of the electoral process and the government's ability to address pressing issues such as unemployment and economic challenges.

Despite efforts to engage young voters, including the establishment of a national youth council and initiatives to support tech start-ups, there are doubts about whether these measures will be sufficient to mobilize the disillusioned youth to participate in the elections.

With a history of low voter turnout, particularly among the youth, Algeria faces the risk of further disengagement from the political process. This disaffection has already manifested in some young Algerians resorting to risky journeys across the Mediterranean in search of better opportunities abroad.

The upcoming presidential elections in Algeria will serve as a litmus test for the government's ability to bridge the gap with the younger generation and restore faith in the democratic process.