Which ethnic groups make up Algeria’s population?

The population of Algeria is primarily composed of two main ethnic groups, though the vast majority of the population shares a common ancestry.

• Arab: More than three-fourths of the population is ethnically Arab. However, most Algerians are descendants of ancient Amazigh groups who intermixed with various peoples from the Arab Middle East, southern Europe, and sub-Saharan Africa over many centuries.1
• Amazigh (Berber): Approximately one-fifth to one-fourth of the population identifies as Amazigh. This group includes several distinct communities:12
  • Kabyle: The largest Amazigh group, residing in the mountainous region east of Algiers.1
  • Shawia: Primarily located in the Aurès Mountains.1
  • M'zabites: A sedentary group inhabiting the northern edge of the desert.1
  • Tuareg: Nomadic groups found in the Saharan Ahaggar region.1

While European settlers formed a significant minority during the colonial period, nearly all have left the country since independence.13