Tradition and Evolution of the Development of Civil-Military Relations in Algeria in Recent Years

Abstract

Although the three former French colonies, Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia situated in the Western part of the Arab world (Maghreb) share a common history, a similar ethnic composition and cultural relations, there are significant differences in the way they gained their independence, as well as in the subsequent state and nation building and the creation of political structures. The analysis examines the tradition and development of Algerian civil-military relations from independence until the mass protests of 2019. The analysis emphasizes that in the informal practice of division of powers, the Algerian army acts as a "deep state actor" in the governance of the political, economic and social life of the country. It only appears as a formal political actor when it deems its interests compromised.