Multi-linguals and the status of French in Algeria

The issue of languages used in Algeria has been addressed by the government through Arabization and is therefore marked by nationalism. The struggle for linguistic independence vis-à-vis French is still ongoing. In addition, the Berber language isn't officially recognized. However, recent economic and social changes have affected the country with the opening of the free market economy and the changes in political landscape and culture. As a result, there has been the emergence of a more objective and pragmatic approach to the question regarding the many different languages spoken in the country. Such changes can be seen, somehow, as the product of the history of Algeria, fueled by large socio-cultural influences that have marked the Mediterranean and the French presence. Here, the Berber language is as important as French in terms of understanding the culture and mentality of Algeria. In fact, the Algerian government is now working hard to better take into account all the different parameters (political, social, educational, economic and historical) for new language policies. All these movements taking place, in turn, are bound to influence adherence to the Francophonie