The Algerian crisis and the failure of international mediation

Summary

The author examines the more recent events behind the crisis in Algeria and a conceivable role that the international community may have in negotiating a diplomatic settlement between the conflicting parties. The efforts that have so far been undertaken by external powers to mediate in the conflict are outlined. In particular, it is suggested that future European Union policy towards Algeria should include a well‐funded programme to implement the proposals found in the Barcelona Summit Declaration of November 1995 for a continuing dialogue between churches and religious leaders in Europe and North Africa.