Mechanisms for the Settlement of Collective Labor Disputes in the Algerian Economic Sector under Labor Disputes Law No. 23-08

Abstract

In light of the economic transformations pursued by Algeria since 2020 through various reform strategies aimed at developing and diversifying the economy—employing legislative, regulatory, executive, and coordinative mechanisms—the overarching objective has been to reduce dependence on oil rents while achieving economic sovereignty and ensuring political independence both domestically and internationally. However, the government has faced a number of social challenges with direct implications for the Algerian economy, foremost among them collective labor disputes. Law No. 90-02 of 6 February 1990, concerning the prevention of collective labor disputes, together with its implementing regulations, proved inadequate in addressing these new dynamics. Consequently, it was amended by Labor Disputes Law No. 23-08 of 21 June 2023 and its implementing texts, which revised the mechanisms of negotiation, mediation, conciliation, and arbitration. These reforms consolidated a culture of social dialogue and proactive negotiation between workers, while simultaneously strengthening the capacities of labor inspectors, mediators, and arbitrators to align with Algeria’s economic transformation strategies. The aim is to strike a balance between safeguarding workers’ rights and ensuring the continuity and quality of economic enterprises.