Hirak's Trajectory and the "New Algeria"

In February 2019 popular protests erupted throughout Algeria. This inclusive and peaceful movement, commonly referred to as Hirak, started the so-called “revolution of smiles” over President Bouteflika’s attempt to seek a fifth term in office, asking for the removal of the old political system. More than two years after the beginning of the mobilisation, military interference in politics remains strong, the new president is considered as an emanation of the former regime and the Hirak’s demands are still unmet. Neither a constitutional referendum nor early legislative elections have helped those in power to gain popular legitimacy. With the authorities more committed to repression than opening towards the movement, political change in the country has yet to come. Meanwhile, Algeria’s relations with its foreign partners seem to have not been affected.