Algeria records historic low turnout in parliamentary elections

Parliamentary elections were held in Algeria on 2 July 2026, with about 24 million eligible voters. The National Independent Authority for Elections (ANIE) announced a provisional turnout of 20.79 % nationwide and 10.67 % among Algerians abroad, the lowest participation rate recorded in the country's electoral history.

The vote came amid a post‑Hirak political climate marked by persistent economic hardship, rising youth unemployment and a sharp increase in living costs. Observers linked the record‑low turnout to growing public disillusionment with the political establishment, limited campaign enthusiasm, and restrictions on candidate eligibility. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and the government stressed that the election was conducted legally and under independent supervision, arguing that the results retain institutional legitimacy despite the poor turnout.

Analysts note that the turnout figure, far below the 23 % recorded in the 2021 legislative election, signals a deeper crisis of confidence in parties and institutions, raising questions about the capacity of the new parliament to address the country’s socioeconomic challenges.