Algeria talks offer holds slim chance of breakthrough

Significance

Months of protests continue as dissatisfied Algerians demand a complete, not cosmetic, overhaul of the political system. As the army, politicians, and opposition actors all want to avoid a descent into civil war, this encourages caution on all sides.

Impacts

• The opposition may weaken unless it can agree on a concrete action plan.
• Foreign oil companies will be wary of investing in Algeria’s hydrocarbon sector as Sonatrach is involved in a corruption scandal.
• Worsening economic conditions could turn the protests violent and create further instability.