A recent report by African Arguments highlights how Algeria’s government is increasingly accused of using transnational repression tactics against dissidents abroad. According to African Arguments, these practices mirror those employed by Eritrea’s regime, raising concerns about their impact on Algerian entrepreneurs and business founders—particularly those linked to the diaspora.
The article details how Algerian authorities have allegedly targeted exiled activists, journalists and business figures perceived as threats. Among those named is academic and writer Mohammed Larbi Zeidan, currently residing in Europe. Zeidan’s case illustrates how diaspora members face legal harassment, travel bans and financial restrictions. According to African Arguments, such measures are part of a broader strategy to silence criticism and control narratives about Algeria’s leadership, including President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s policies.
Algeria’s economy, heavily reliant on hydrocarbons, faces additional strain as diaspora entrepreneurs navigate these risks. Remittances—critical to the country’s balance of payments—could decline if fear spreads among Algerians abroad about political exposure. In 2024, Algeria received approximately $5 billion in remittances, a figure cited by the World Bank as vital for small businesses and startups dependent on foreign capital. Diaspora investors, particularly in tech, energy and real estate sectors, may now reassess exposure to Algerian projects due to legal uncertainties.
The report also references Algeria’s 2020 Cybercrime Law, which imposes penalties for online dissent. Entrepreneurs using digital platforms for cross-border trade or remote work risk legal consequences if their content is deemed subversive. For example, freelancers in IT exports or e-commerce could face sudden account freezes or contract cancellations over vague legal interpretations.
Algerian business associations have acknowledged emerging concerns. The National Economic and Social Council (CNES) recently discussed “foreign interference risks” in policy briefs, though no direct link to the repression report was mentioned. Meanwhile, diaspora chambers of commerce in France and Canada report a drop in new venture registrations by Algerians over the last year, though figures remain unverified.
The Algerian government denies systematic repression, framing its actions as legal counterterrorism measures. However, African Arguments notes growing scrutiny from international watchdogs, including Human Rights Watch, which has documented cases of enforced disappearances and extradition requests from Algerian authorities.
For entrepreneurs, the implications are clear. Diaspora founders may delay or abandon projects in Algeria to avoid legal exposure. Investors in sectors like fintech, renewable energy and diaspora-focused services face elevated risk assessments. According to African Arguments, some Algerian business figures in Europe have reportedly shifted capital to Tunisia and Morocco as safer alternatives.
Key takeaway for entrepreneurs
Algerian entrepreneurs with diaspora ties should review legal exposure under the Cybercrime Law and remittance channels. Shifting investment to neighboring markets could reduce risks. Diaspora-led ventures in digital services may need compliance reviews to avoid content-related penalties.
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