Bloc issues analysis paper on its “Social Cohesion” initiative and its timing

Hisn Al-Mateen Bloc Institution — Ref. 2025/115 — Algiers, 24 May 2025

Analysis paper on the “Social Cohesion” initiative and the timing of its launch

Preamble: the “Social Cohesion” initiative is a strategic project led by the Hisn Al-Mateen Bloc Institution, based on bringing together civil-society actors of all persuasions to help build a united, strong internal front responsive to national challenges. It aims to create an inclusive space for civic dialogue that goes beyond narrow party alignments and is grounded in the nation’s higher interest.

Reading of the national context:

• Political change: Algeria is going through a delicate phase of political transition as the authorities seek to establish the model of the new Republic; the initiative is therefore pre-emptive in strengthening the internal front.
• Identity and ethnic tensions (the Amazigh question): amid rising identity discourse and cultural and linguistic demands, the initiative offers a comprehensive approach based on diversity within unity, redefining citizenship on an inclusive basis that places national belonging above sub-identities.
• Party rivalries and weak political mobilisation: political parties’ mobilising role is declining, which allows civil society to fill the gap with realistic approaches that respond to citizens’ concerns.

Why the timing matters:

• Regional geopolitics: escalating crises in neighbouring countries (Libya, Mali, Niger), attempts by foreign powers to penetrate the Maghreb and Sahel, and growing cross-border identity conflicts (Amazigh, Tuareg, Azawadis…).
• Preparations for upcoming national milestones, such as constitutional reforms or local or legislative elections, making the initiative a tool for informed collective mobilisation that encourages constructive political participation.
• A fragile social climate: high youth unemployment and declining trust in institutions, highlighting the need for initiatives that revive civic spirit and restore confidence.

Objectives of the initiative at this time:

• supporting the State’s efforts for stability and development;
• building an internal front resilient to campaigns of doubt and discord;
• opening channels between political parties and civil society, away from ideological calculations;
• strengthening collective awareness of responsible civic engagement.

Practical proposals:

• joint meetings and seminars with political parties and unions on “national unity in diversity”;
• launching media and field platforms to support the initiative across the 58 wilayas;
• increasing the participation of women and young people through dedicated structures within the initiative.

An explicit call to all national parties: the Institution calls on all national parties, without exception, to support the initiative on the ground, open up to young civil-society actors and contribute to an inclusive, non-partisan national project. The initiative is aimed against no one but is for everyone, and dialogue is the only basis for a new national consensus.

Conclusion: with its national scope, the “Social Cohesion” initiative is a rare opportunity to rebuild trust between citizens and the State and between civil society and the parties, strengthening Algeria’s resilience against geopolitical and identity-based threats.

Long live a free and independent Algeria; eternal glory to our martyrs.

President of the Hisn Al-Mateen Bloc Institution, Mr Djelloul Chetouane.