From ethnopolitical contention to constitutional recognition: understanding the Berber question dynamics in Algeria

ABSTRACT

Berber question is a substantial component of an enduring identity crisis, in which Algerian authorities had been found entrapped since the very beginning of independence. This article examines the extent to which the escalation of this identity crisis may be explained either in colonial legacy terms, or as a result of Algerian authorities’ mismanagement of an exclusively identity-oriented claims widely recognized as legitimate. Although, the exploration of different stages – through which identity claims agenda had been set – made the point of controversial patterns; however, mismanagement pattern prevails as a sustaining factor of an ongoing crisis. Today, despite the constitutional recognition of the Berber dimension as an integral part of Algerian identity (via the constitutional amendment of 2016), dealing solely with the Berber heritage in its folkloric dimension, is what some militant forces within the Berber movement fear and other matters that have yet to be adequately resolved (e.g. the use of Tamazight as the language of instruction). This article surveys the developing situation of the Berber question and aims for a better understanding that will hopefully help determine the future of the Berber question in Algeria.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

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61. On 17 December 1996, the Algerian government (Conseil National de Transition, Algerian Transitional National Council) voted unanimously to adopt a law on the ‘generalization of the use of the Arabic Language’ which stated that: ‘All public administration, institutions, enterprises and associations, of whatever nature, are required to use only the Arabic Language in all their activities, including communication and administrative, financial, technical and artistic management’.

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