THE EVOLUTION OF THE ELECTORAL SYSTEM IN ALGERIA AND ITS IMPACT ON ENHANCING DEMOCRATIC INTEGRITY IN LIGHT OF THE 2020 CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT AND ORDER (21-01)

Abstract

The electoral system in Algeria has undergone significant transformations since independence; however, the most notable change came after the popular Hirak of 2019, followed by the 2020 constitutional amendment and the issuance of Order (21-01) dated 10 March 2021, containing the organic law related to the electoral system. This study aims to analyze the structure of the Algerian electoral system in light of these developments, with a focus on their impact on strengthening democratic transparency and integrity.

The study adopts an analytical-descriptive methodology based on examining relevant constitutional and legal texts, in addition to drawing on scientific, juridical, and judicial literature addressing the issue of elections in Algeria.

The study starts from a central question: To what extent did the 2020 constitutional amendment and Order (21-01) contribute to restructuring the Algerian electoral system in a way that achieves greater integrity and transparency? This main question branches into several sub-questions related to the evolution of electoral legislation, the independence of the Independent National Authority for Elections, the effectiveness of judicial oversight by the Constitutional Court, and the interpretation of electoral abstention and invalid ballots.

The study concludes that recent constitutional and legal reforms have paved the way for a new phase in the organization of the electoral process, through redefining the role of electoral administration, strengthening judicial oversight mechanisms, and introducing the principle of digitization in election management. However, major challenges remain, particularly regarding low voter turnout, fragmented parliamentary representation, and the limited legislative initiative of deputies, which calls for continuing the reform process with broader institutional and cultural measures.