President Tebboune’s Four-Year Legacy: Pioneering Transformations Across Every Spectrum -Special Dossier
BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS- Over the past four years, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has left an indelible mark on Algeria, steering the nation through pioneering transformations that span economic, social, legal and diplomatic domains. With a steadfast commitment to improving citizens’ lives, President Tebboune’s vision has manifested in a series of historic decisions and impactful initiatives.
December 12, 2023 marked four years since the election of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who has overseen significant gains and implemented historic decisions in Algeria. These accomplishments include salary increases, pensions for retirees, along with an unemployment allowance. Additionally, the integration of contract workers has been a focal point.
President Tebboune was committed to making the fourth year of his presidency a year of accomplishments and tangible gains, especially for the citizens, who are a top priority in the president’s agenda. These gains have been widely appreciated by the Algerian population.
On the social front, President Tebboune’s tenure has witnessed transformative measures to safeguard citizens’ purchasing power. Salary increases, pension enhancements, and unemployment allowances have provided tangible relief to millions. The integration of contractual workers into permanent positions has been a landmark decision, ensuring job security and social coverage.
The Finance Law included the establishment of a solidarity grant for socially vulnerable groups with no income. This grant targets families, individuals, and those over 60, as well as persons with disabilities. Furthermore, a special fund called the “Expense Fund” was created, and the state pays expenses for beneficiaries through this fund. The Ministry of Justice handles the collection of these amounts from debtors using specific mechanisms.
Despite global economic challenges due to wars and diseases, Algeria achieved social objectives swiftly. Regular and substantial salary increases for Algerians, reaching up to 47% by 2024, were implemented. Increases in the unemployment allowance were also approved, addressing the issue of reducing unemployment levels in Algeria, especially among the youth, a matter of special concern for the authorities.
Since 2020, the state has adopted a fundamental basis for creating economic activities, enhancing suitable employment opportunities, and strengthening the economic fabric in the medium and long term. These revolutionary decisions by President Tebboune aim to promote employment and boost purchasing power across society. This includes the integration of beneficiaries from professional and social integration assistance programs and the establishment of a job seeker grant for the first time.
President Tebboune’s Commitments to Improve Citizens’ Standard of Living: Four Years Later
In January 2023, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune underscored his commitment to prioritize the enhancement of citizens’ living conditions during the opening of the fifth meeting between the government and governors. The theme, “Local Development: Assessment and Prospects,” set the stage for a series of decisions aimed at consolidating achievements and improving the overall quality of life for Algerians.
Among the measures outlined to maintain the purchasing power of citizens is the valorization of wages and salaries, benefiting more than 2.8 million employees and contractual workers in the public sector for a period of two years with a financial impact of 341 billion dinars for 2023 and 578 billion dinars starting from 2024. Additionally, there has been an 11% increase in the national minimum guaranteed wage, and a 47% increase in wage valorization. Pension benefits have been raised by 33%, with a financial allocation of 600 billion dinars.
Furthermore, the unemployment allowance targeted at accompanying job seekers for the first time has been increased from 15,000 dinars to 18,000 dinars to meet their basic needs. The state has provided social protection for them at a total cost of 315.8 billion dinars since the establishment of the program. Efforts have been made to offer permanent positions through job interviews and to enhance the qualifications of the unemployed by directing them to vocational training centers.
Another key initiative was the raise in the minimum wage threshold in Algeria, reaching 15,000 DA for those receiving less than 10,000 DA and 20,000 DA for those with a pension of 15,000 DA. This move aligned the pension minimum with the national guaranteed minimum wage, which had been raised from 18,000 DA to 20,000 DA in 2021.
In another decision contributing to President Tebboune’s initiatives, there has been a reduction in the tax burden by revising the income tax scale for all income categories under the 2022 Finance Law, with a financial impact of 174 billion dinars. Additionally, those with a monthly income below 30,000 dinars are exempt from paying income tax.
One of the significant decisions of 2023 is the integration of pre-employment contract holders into permanent positions. This measure has impacted more than half a million integrated individuals, expanding social coverage and absorbing work in the parallel sector, incorporating it into the official sector. The number of individuals registered for social security exceeded 400,000 workers by the end of September 2023, compared to 393,367 workers by the end of September 2022. The beneficiaries of social coverage in both the waged and non-waged systems exceeded 29 million citizens. Moreover, the revenues of the social security system for waged workers during the first nine months of the current year increased to 1.243 billion dinars compared to 1.020 billion dinars during the same period in 2022, reflecting a 21.9% increase.
To safeguard citizens’ purchasing power, the government has actively fought against speculation while prioritizing the elimination of bureaucratic and parasitic practices. President Tebboune’s comprehensive approach reflects a commitment to improving citizens’ socio-economic conditions and fostering a more prosperous Algeria.
President Tebboune’s Housing Agenda Takes Center Stage
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has consistently emphasized that housing projects in various forms will remain a continuous focus, underscoring that housing will remain a top priority for the state, given the Algerian mindset that aspires to homeownership.
Over the past four years, Algeria has made significant strides in the field of housing construction, with projects being realized through the use of locally manufactured Algerian materials and labor, thus putting an end to imports and the drain on hard currency.
One particularly well-received decision was the announcement by President Tebboune of a housing program falling under the “AADL” rent-to-own framework in its third season.
In concrete terms, 460,000 housing units have been registered in various formats under the 2024 Finance Law. This includes 230,000 rural housing units, distributed across 130,000 public rental housing, 20,000 upgrading public housing, 230,000 rural housing, and 80,000 units for social subdivision.
The 2024 Finance Law project includes commitments totaling 1104.32 billion dinars, reflecting a 100% increase compared to 2023. It also incorporates payment appropriations totaling 564.313 billion dinars.
Under the new Finance Law, the newly established National Housing Bank will officially have funding at its disposal by late 2022 for public rental housing programs, various primary and secondary networks and methods, as well as initial aids and state contributions for accessing housing, replacing the National Housing Fund.
A Favorable Investment Law, Four Years Later
Over the past four years, President Tebboune’s commitments and accomplishments have not only dispelled the image of Algeria as a country burdened by bureaucratic obstacles that drove economic operators away but have also restored the luster of investment. Despite a challenging history and the relentless impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Algeria, under the foresighted and effective leadership of the President, has become a highly reliable partner.
In sectors such as automotive, energy (particularly solar and green hydrogen), foreign investors are readily forming partnerships with Algeria. Encouraged by the measures outlined in the new investment law, including the establishment of a one-stop-shop and banking reforms, globally renowned companies are eager to contribute capital and technological expertise.
The figures speak to the increasing appeal of our country. As of the end of September, the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency (AAPI) recorded 3,734 projects.
The introduction of a dedicated digital platform for investors is poised to bring transparency, equality, and efficiency to the processing of investment applications, fostering trust.
The new legislation explicitly states that the management of economic land will be the exclusive responsibility of the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency (AAPI) through its one-stop-shop.
Souhil Meddah, an expert in financial engineering, emphasizes that the economic policy adopted since early 2020 has focused on three main directions, gradually implementing measures aligned with these orientations. This includes a shift toward a new economic paradigm based on overall supply, a profound reformulation of fiscal regulations to ease operational constraints faced by entrepreneurs, particularly in the industrial sector.
Furthermore, there has been a revision and re-framing of the Investment Code, categorizing investments into strategic and non-strategic, delivering economically beneficial incentives.
Meddah highlights the optimization of resources with prudent reserve management, resulting in a partial and temporary protective policy in response to challenging circumstances.
In addition, there is a widespread valorization of skills, expanding their scope, and allocating funds for innovative investments. These initiatives aim to birth a multi-sectoral supply model and redefine the roles of investors, support organizations, and regulatory bodies.
Other actions, including the opening of new maritime and air links with West African countries, aim to serve and support the supply model, particularly abroad. Algeria’s financial sector has been opened through the accelerated launch of Algerian banks abroad, acting as financial intermediaries and commercial facilitators in their host countries, contributing to the non-hydrocarbon export model.
President Tebboune’s Vision Transforms Algeria’s Mining Sector: A Comprehensive Overview
Since President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s election in December 2019, Algeria’s mining sector has experienced a remarkable resurgence, marked by increased investments, diversified production, and enhanced sector management.
The Algerian government announced a $100 billion investment plan in the mining sector by 2030. This initiative aims to modernize mining infrastructure, develop new mines, and optimize productivity. Algeria has strategically focused on diversifying its mining productions, emphasizing precious metals, rare metals, and industrial minerals. This diversification seeks to reduce Algeria’s dependence on hydrocarbons and diversify its revenue sources.
In this vein, the Executive has implemented new regulations for the mining sector, emphasizing transparency and the efficiency of mining activities. This regulation includes the establishment of a National Mining Authority and the implementation of a modernized Mining Code.
Positive Outcomes
These efforts to revitalize the mining sector are yielding tangible results. In 2023, Algerian mining production increased by 10% compared to the previous year. Investments in the sector also surged from $2.5 billion in 2020 to $5 billion in 2023. This revitalization is primarily attributed to increased production of iron, copper, and zinc.
Noting that Algeria boasts significant resources, including iron, copper, zinc, gold, silver, and phosphates. The country is determined to exploit this potential, making the mining sector a driver of economic growth.
Concrete Measures
Since 2020, concrete steps have been taken to rejuvenate the mining sector. These include signing public-private partnership (PPP) contracts with foreign companies, especially Chinese firms; implementing tax incentives for mining sector investment; and creating special economic zones dedicated to mining.
In 2020, the government signed an agreement with the Chinese CITIC group for the exploitation of the Gara Djebilet iron mine in southwest Algeria. Additionally, the Chinese mining group CNPC signed a $10 billion agreement with the Algerian government for the development of the aforementioned iron mine.
In 2021, the government initiated a modernization project for the Ouenza copper mine in the northeast. Canadian company Barrick Gold signed a $2.4 billion agreement with the Algerian government for the development of the Tamda gold mine in the east.
In 2022, a new public company, the National Mining and Metallurgy Company (SNGM), was established to oversee Algeria’s mining sector. A mining exploration program was also launched to identify new mineral resources.
In early November 2023, the “Tala Hamza-Oued Amizour” zinc and lead project was launched in the Bejaia province, boasting one of the world’s largest reserves of these minerals.
These measures have attracted the interest of foreign investors in Algeria’s mining sector. Numerous foreign companies have expressed their intention to invest in the country, particularly in the exploration of oil, gas, iron, copper, gold, and silver.
A Judiciary Independent, Upholder of the Rule of Law
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s commitment to establishing an independent judiciary, safeguarding the rule of law and collective individual freedoms, has seen significant progress four years into his presidency. Immediate actions were taken post-inauguration, focusing on legislative changes to separate the legislative, judicial, and executive powers in the new Constitution.
First Fully Digitized Sector
Recognizing the indispensability of digitization in modernizing and expediting reforms, the justice sector became the first to undergo comprehensive digitization. This transformation aimed to initiate profound reforms, deliver quality services to citizens, and simplify the work of judges, lawyers, and officials.
The Ministry of Justice, equipped with a General Directorate for Modernization, has made significant strides toward a digital future. The results are evident across ministerial structures, notably in Courts and tribunals, where citizens experience increased speed, efficiency, and ease of access to justice.
Aligned with President Tebboune’s commitments, the Ministry of Justice embarked on deep reforms across all segments. Modernization and digitization marked the beginning of these reforms, utilizing modern technologies in administrative and judicial management to enhance public service and bring justice closer to the people.
Valuing human resources came next, with measures taken to manage the careers of magistrates and administrative staff, along with training programs for both judges and officials.
Legislative reforms were crucial to implement the envisioned measures. Concepts of the rule of law, judicial independence, societal protection against crime, new policies in penal practice, and justice and economic development underwent significant changes to align with the new directions of New Algeria.
Key Reform Axes
Rule of Law and Strengthening Judicial Independence: A revised electoral system was promulgated to build strong elected institutions, ensure power alternation, and combat corruption in the electoral process. The enactment of Organic Law No. 19-22 reconsidered procedures and modalities for the referral of the Constitutional Court.
Strengthening Magistrates’ Independence: New legislative texts, particularly those related to the election of members of the Superior Council of the Judiciary, were introduced to enhance the independence of magistrates, per the provisions of the 2020 Constitution.
Judicial Power Strengthening: Plans for a complete revision of existing laws were initiated to fortify judicial authority, providing mechanisms guaranteeing magistrates’ total independence and protection against pressure or interference.
Quality of Justice: Multiple legislations were enacted to facilitate access to justice and establish new specialized jurisdictions, such as Administrative Appeal Courts and administrative and commercial tribunals. Ten new Courts were established in the newly reorganized Southern provinces to bring justice closer to citizens.
Civil and Administrative Procedure Streamlining: A comprehensive revision of the Civil and Administrative Procedure Codes aimed to streamline procedures and enhance efficiency.
Prevention and Combating Corruption
In line with President Tebboune’s emphasis on combating corruption, the government focused on reinforcing the prevention and fight against corruption, and ethical standards in public life. The creation of the Supreme Authority for Transparency, Fight, and Prevention against Corruption constitutionally controls public life, adhering to the 2020 Constitution.
Combatting Crime
Long plagued by illicit activities, Algeria underwent urgent measures and an unwavering fight against criminals who exploited the country’s resources. The Penal Code underwent modifications to criminalize acts like assaults on hospital personnel, false declarations for subsidies, and attacks on the integrity of exams and competitions.
Illicit Speculation, Illicit Trafficking
Stringent laws were enacted to combat illicit speculation on subsidized essential products and illicit drug trafficking, which had reached unprecedented levels. The goal was to protect citizens’ purchasing power and the physical and moral health of the youth. Additional legislations addressed transnational crimes, human trafficking, and terrorism to secure Algerian society.
Penitentiary System Reform
A profound reform of the penitentiary system aimed to humanize prisons, build new international-standard facilities, offer dignified living conditions, ensure complete healthcare, provide training or paid work, and facilitate social reintegration after serving sentences. Released detainees receive support for full reintegration into society.
High-Quality Public Service
In efforts to bring justice closer to citizens, a high-quality public service was established, offering rapid, efficient, and easy services across judicial establishments. Through digitization, citizens can quickly obtain copies of signed judgments from any Court or tribunal nationwide.
Advanced Training for Magistrates
To match the ambitions of judicial reforms and ensure a high-quality public service, the creation of a Higher School of Magistracy offering training for judges and public prosecutors became a priority. Experienced magistrates, well-versed in judicial practices, with high-level pedagogical capabilities, conduct the training.
These multifaceted reforms underscore President Tebboune’s commitment to establishing a judiciary that upholds the rule of law, protects individual freedoms, and restores faith in Algeria’s justice system. The progress made in these four years serves as a testament to the dedication towards building a modern, efficient, and just society in the New Algeria.
President Tebboune’s Diplomatic Triumph: Algeria’s Resurgence on the Global Stage
It is undeniable that Algerian diplomacy, once at its lowest ebb, has reclaimed its prestige and secured a significant place on the international stage. Testimonies from the United Nations Secretary-General, the President of the European Union, and numerous world leaders underscore Algeria’s pivotal role in fostering peace and stability in Africa and its neighboring regions.
Under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Algerian diplomacy has not only regained prominence but has also become a key player in global affairs.
Upon assuming office, President Tebboune was well aware of the challenges both domestically and internationally. Beyond rhetoric, the country needed tangible actions.
President Tebboune wasted no time, recognizing the urgent need to revitalize a beleaguered diplomatic apparatus.
The urgency to “urgently repair Algerian foreign policy” was swiftly addressed under President Tebboune’s guidance, reinstating Algeria into the global arena in record time. The country has reclaimed its due place among the nations.
In Africa, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and the Mediterranean basin, Algeria’s influence is not only restored but also strengthened.
Beyond its mediating role, the new direction taken by Algerian diplomacy aligns with the priorities outlined in the Government Action Plan for implementing the President’s program.
In this context, President Tebboune initiated the creation of seven Special Envoys positions, entrusted with leading Algeria’s international efforts in seven crucial areas reflecting its interests and priorities.
These areas include the Western Sahara issue and Maghreb countries, international security concerns, African affairs, particularly the geostrategy of the Sahelo-Saharan region and the presidency of the Follow-up Committee for the implementation of the Algiers Agreement on peace and reconciliation in Mali, the expatriate community, economic diplomacy, Arab countries, and major international partnerships.
Algerian diplomacy achieved a historic milestone by bringing Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismaïl Haniyeh together on July 5, 2022, in Algiers. This historic meeting marked a significant breakthrough after years of strained relations.
“Mindful of profound shifts on regional and international levels, the State works to preserve Algeria’s place and position in a global context marked by disruptions and upheavals, in a world that will no longer be governed by the same rules that dictated international relations for decades, nor by the same political and economic global balances,” President Tebboune emphasized in his message on the occasion of Victory Day on March 19, 2022.
Heralding a New Era
As Algeria marks the fourth anniversary of President Tebboune’s election, the legacy is one of transformative governance, economic resilience, and a commitment to citizens’ well-being. The journey embarked upon over the past four years lays the foundation for a promising future, positioning Algeria as a regional and global force in the years to come.
Dzair Tube Media Group
Dzair Tube has firmly established itself as a prominent player among Algerian digital news sites, offering a diverse and enriching content experience. The platform, available in Arabic, French, and English editions, captures the attention of a wide-ranging audience, amassing over half a million daily clicks.
A testament to its commitment to excellence, Dzair Tube received the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This recognition underscores the platform’s unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism.
With a significant online presence, Dzair Tube boasts 350,000 subscribers on YouTube, over five million followers on various Facebook pages, and 450,000 subscribers on Instagram. Its digital channel has become a hub for diverse programming, covering news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a broad spectrum of audience preferences.
Equipped with state-of-the-art studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has garnered substantial viewership for its varied programs. Hosting interactive discussions with influential figures across different domains, the platform actively fosters public discourse and engagement. Beyond news coverage, Dzair Tube extends its commitment to the production of marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership programs.
The success of the print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further highlights the platform’s impact, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.
Recently honored with the Media Leadership Award from the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the landscape of Algerian digital news, maintaining a position of influence and impact in the media industry.
