Governmental and Non-governmental Organizations and the Management Process of Historic Cities in Algeria

Classified Protected Areas, the historic towns in Algeria constitute the focus of the efforts of the state, civil society, and international organizations. The involvement of the various stakeholders in the heritage policy in Algeria is today supported and regulated, but also encounters some difficulties. The objective of this study is to analyze the degree of involvement of the various stakeholders. It aims to develop an observation of the role of governmental organizations and non-governmental organizations in the process of planning and enhancement of cities and historic centers in Algeria. This work contributes to the enrichment of the current debate governing the involvement of stakeholders in the conservation of historic cities. It falls within the guidelines of the various charters and recommendations, in this case the approach to the historic urban landscape. This research is based on a qualitative approach, by studying the legislative process and the institutional framework governing the historic cities in Algeria, and by addressing the case study of “the old town of Sidi El Houari” in Oran. However, this research demonstrates the important role of heritage associations and intergovernmental NGOs in the preservation and conservation of historic centers and towns, alongside the administrative role of governmental organizations. This study affirms the importance of encouraging the integration of non-governmental organizations in the management process of these historic cities. It proposes the creation of a direct coordination between the two models of organizations (governmental and non-governmental), and to give a formal status for the various intergovernmental organizations. It also suggests the creation of a National Urban Forum of NGOs, and to ensure better involvement and collaboration between public and private actors in the conservation of historic cities, while complying with international guidelines.