Algeria World Affairs

Algeria's struggle for independence from France lasted from 1954 until 1962. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Algeria's success in rejecting a colonial power made it a champion for the developing world. It had a leading voice within the UN, the Arab League and the Organization for African Unity.  However, relations with the West remained essentially stable. Algeria was increasingly seen by the diplomatic community as a useful bridge between the West and Iran. 
    In 1981, Algerian diplomats helped to secure the release of American hostages held in Tehran during the last days of US President Carter's term of office. Algeria also attempted to act in a mediating role during the 1980–1988 Iran–Iraq War. 
    Algeria's influence overseas has diminished as the country has become increasingly unstable politically. Throughout the 1990s, the government has been under severe pressure from the Islamic fundamentalist FIS. A victory for the FIS in Algeria would greatly encourage Islamic militants in neighboring Morocco and Tunisia, and further undermine Egypt's embattled government. 
    European governments are also concerned that an FIS takeover could trigger a wave of refugees seeking entry into France, Spain and Italy.