The Geopolitical Dimension of Algerian Identity

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70091/Atras/vol07no01.3

Keywords:

Crisis of self and other, Geopolitics of Identity, identity challenges, identity diplomacy, symbolic interaction

Abstract

To comprehend the geopolitics of identity in Algeria, it is necessary to be familiar with the cultural, historical, and political factors that shape the country's national identity, including its cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity. The resolution of these factors and the promotion of national unity are imperative. The concept of identity is a pivotal catalyst for the convergence, interaction, and exchange of ideas in international relations. The principles of acceptance, respect, acknowledgement of uniqueness, and recognition of differences characterise this paradigm. This can affect the smooth handling of local and regional issues, whether related to ethnicity, gender, lineage, or religious, political, or ideological beliefs, within a positive and tolerant context. Identity plays a crucial role in analyzing, interpreting, and anticipating potential changes and trends, as it is a motivating and influential force in international affairs. However, it is also the primary source of human divisions and the leading cause of wars and conflicts. It faces various challenges and can create a crisis between "self" and "other." This necessitates defending national values by activating the role of the state in protecting its principles and fortifying its youth.

References

Bennett, M. (2004). The development of collective self-esteem and in‐group favoritism: The role of self and group identity. Child Development, 75(3), 555–577. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8624.2004.00691.x

Carter, M. J., & Fuller, C. (2016). Symbols, meaning, and action: The past, present, and future of symbolic interactionism. Current Sociology, 64(6), 931–961. https://doi.org/10.1177/0011392116638396

Kinnvall, C. (2004). Globalization and religious nationalism: Self, identity, and the search for ontological security. Political Psychology, 25(5), 741–767. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9221.2004.00396.x

Filiu, J.-P. (2015). From deep state to Islamic State: The Arab counter-revolution and its jihadi legacy. Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0260210504005819

Harshé, R. (2006). Culture, identity and international relations. Economic and Political Weekly, 41(37), 3945–3951.

Jetten, J., Haslam, C., & Haslam, S. A. (Eds.). (2012). The social cure: Identity, health and well-being. Psychology Press.

Kandil, H. (2020). Algerian identity and the cultural politics of language: Contesting French hegemony, 1962–2012. Lexington Books.

Kroger, J. (2007). Identity development: Adolescence through adulthood (2nd ed.). SAGE Publications.

Masolo, D. A. (2002). Community, identity, and the cultural space. Rue Descartes, 2002(36), 19–51. https://doi.org/10.3917/rdes.036.0019

McDougall, J. (2006). The politics of Algeria: Domestic issues and international relations. Routledge.

McDougall, J. (2017). Algeria’s identity crisis: Colonialism, Islamism and the new geopolitics. African Affairs, 116(464), 495–507. https://doi.org/10.1093/afraf/adx025

Raud, R. (2016). Zygmunt Bauman’s critique of multiculturalism: A polemical reading. Revue internationale de philosophie, 70(3), 381–397. https://doi.org/10.3917/rip.277.0381

Roberts, H. (2014). The geopolitics of Algeria: A long view. Middle East Institute Policy Brief, 2014(2), 1–11.

Downloads

Published

2026202620262026-0101-2525

Similar Articles

1-10 of 72

You may also start an advanced similarity search for this article.