Algeria’s Synthetic-Drug Market Booms as Country Emerges as Key Trafficking Hub

A disturbing trend has emerged in Algeria, where the synthetic-drug market is growing at an alarming rate. Once a point for smuggled synthetics, Algeria has transformed into a major destination country and is now considered the largest market in North Africa.

Market Trends

According to reports, Tramadol and codeine smuggling dominate the market, with Subutex also playing a significant role. While cocaine and heroin markets have a limited influence in the country, there are signs of an uptick in activity recently, with Algeria emerging as a new and significant trafficking hub linking Latin American cocaine production sites with drug markets in Europe.

Criminal Networks

The rise of synthetic drugs has contributed to the growth of criminal networks, which are now among the most active, geographically widespread, and economically dominant criminal actors in Algeria. These networks have transnational linkages and are involved in various illegal activities, including:

Hashish trafficking
Oil smuggling
Human trafficking
Arms trade

Foreign Actors

Foreign actors, particularly from Niger, Mali, and Libya, have also been linked to these criminal networks, with evidence suggesting they are physically present in the country. The authorities’ tolerance for informal cross-border activities has decreased in recent times, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Government Response

The Algerian government’s response to organized crime has focused on law enforcement and militarization, with a heavy emphasis on maintaining territorial integrity. However, the vastness of the country’s territory makes it impossible to fully control its borders, particularly given its proximity to conflict-torn states.

Judicial System

The judicial system in Algeria is weak, with high levels of government interference and limited ability to bring high-level organized crime figures to trial. Physical and other forms of abuse are widespread within the detention system.

Economic Challenges

Algeria is on the verge of a crisis due to falling oil prices. The government’s grip on the economy is strong, but it has shown limited capacity to exert control over the informal economy, which accounts for more than half of the overall economy.

Civil society and social protection measures are extremely weak in Algeria, with access to effective treatment and support being difficult for those who use drugs. The country meets only a small fraction of the necessary measures to help victims exit modern slavery.

Restrictions on Civil Society

The authorities have restricted funding and capacity for civil-society groups, leading to a shrinking legal space in which they can operate. Independent media has been repressed, with several journalists imprisoned as political prisoners.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Algeria’s synthetic-drug market is booming, driven by criminal networks and foreign actors. The government’s response to organized crime is focused on law enforcement, but its effectiveness is limited due to the country’s vast territory and weak judicial system. Economic instability and restrictions on civil society add to the challenges faced by the country in addressing this growing issue.