Algeria - June 2024

In June, severe water shortages in Algeria triggered widespread protests, especially in the northwestern farming region of Tiaret. Frustrated residents burned tires and blocked roads, condemning the government’s inadequate response to the water crisis. Earlier, President Tebboune had convened a council of ministers to address the issue, promising that water supplies would be restored by the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha. Despite these assurances, the crisis persisted, with many areas still experiencing dry taps by the promised date. These protests are particularly notable as Algeria has seen relatively few demonstrations since the 2020-2021 period when anti-government protests were met with severe repression. The rare protests come at a sensitive time, with early presidential elections scheduled for 7 September.  

Sources: The New Arab, Al Monitor, TSA, Le Monde