Despite Detractors, Algeria’s Civil Society Thrives Under President Tebboune’s Visionary Leadership

Despite Detractors, Algeria’s Civil Society Thrives Under President Tebboune’s Visionary Leadership

✍️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria|  In the face of cynical critiques and ideologically driven disinformation, it has become increasingly necessary to separate serious journalism from what can only be described as malicious propaganda. A recent article published by Maghreb Emergent—a platform whose editorial line routinely echoes anti-Algerian rhetoric and appears uncomfortably aligned with agendas hostile to Algeria’s sovereignty—offers a textbook example of such misleading discourse. This so-called “critical” piece not only distorts facts but aggressively targets the undeniable progress of civil society under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Labeling the current flourishing of Algeria’s civic landscape as “premature optimism,” the article stoops to belittle a legitimate and well-documented statement by Ibtissem Hamlaoui, President of the National Observatory of Civil Society, who rightfully referred to this era as the “golden age” of Algerian civil society. Instead of engaging with the substance of her assertion, Maghreb Emergent opts for sarcasm and deflection, questioning the legitimacy of a national renaissance simply because it does not fit within its narrow, politically charged narrative.

 

It is essential to underscore that Hamlaoui’s statement is not rhetorical embellishment, but an evidence-based reflection of structural advancements. Since President Tebboune assumed office, the civil society sector has not only been constitutionally enshrined—as per the 2020 Constitution—but has also been elevated to an active pillar within Algeria’s participatory democratic architecture. This is a far cry from the defunct, symbolic activism of past decades.

 

President Tebboune’s commitment has been strategic and multidimensional. His establishment of the National Observatory of Civil Society as an independent advisory body marked a turning point in institutionalizing civic participation. Furthermore, initiatives such as the National Forum of Civil Society have provided crucial platforms for dialogue, local development planning, and citizen engagement—initiatives designed not merely for optics, but for tangible empowerment.

 

Yet, Maghreb Emergent dares to present selective judicial cases—still under legal examination—as emblematic of a systemic crackdown on freedoms. Such reductionist framing not only lacks journalistic integrity but also aims to delegitimize Algeria’s internal reform trajectory. Worse still, it maligns thousands of grassroots associations, youth groups, and cultural networks that have been revitalized through new legal frameworks and state support mechanisms.

 

Contrary to the article’s insinuations, Algerian civil society today is diverse, dynamic, and increasingly effective in defending human rights, advancing gender equality, supporting sustainable development, and reinforcing national unity. From environmental groups to youth-led digital initiatives, civil actors are shaping local and national agendas in unprecedented ways.

 

The Observatory’s work in capacity building, financial empowerment, and technological training has fortified civic actors’ ability to mobilize communities and influence policy. Moreover, its emphasis on participatory governance through citizen oversight, local project monitoring, and collaborative public policy is aligned with global best practices in democratic development.

 

The irony is tragic: while some media outlets in the region celebrate symbolic reforms devoid of societal inclusion, Algeria’s tangible progress is mocked. But no amount of polemical posturing can obscure the reality: under President Tebboune, civil society in Algeria has reclaimed its voice, legitimacy, and purpose.

 

To the question posed sarcastically by Maghreb Emergent: “When will this golden age begin?”—the answer is unequivocal. It began the moment Algeria chose to reimagine its future not only through institutions but through its people. Those who refuse to see that are not lacking evidence—they are blinded by ideology.

 

In this new era, where civic engagement is enshrined in law and translated into action, the black ink of destructive journalism cannot erase the achievements of an empowered people and a President committed to inclusive progress.

 

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