The Conflict

Since the early 1990s Algeria has been involved in a harsh civil war, characterized by, among other things, the brutalization of its civilians.

Political

• The Islamic Salvation Front was the likely winner in an election; it was subsequently cancelled by the military government, causing disillusionment with the political system.

Religious

• The Islamic Salvation Front has the support of a significant portion of the population. The Front advocates the establishment of Islamic law, shari'a.

Economic

• The drop in oil prices in the 1980s increased the migration of people from rural areas to the city and increased poverty and social dislocation, adding to discontent and furthering violence.

Since the early 1990s Algeria has gained increased notoriety in the Western media because of a violent civil conflict ostensibly between supporters of the government and organizations who wish to establish...