Languages of Algeria

The official languages of Algeria are Arabic and Standard Algerian Amazigh, as specified in its constitution since 1963 for the former and since 2016 for the latter. Arabic, particularly the Algerian Arabic dialect, is the most widely spoken language in Algeria, but a number of regional and foreign languages are also spoken. Standard Algerian Amazigh has been recognized as a national language by constitutional amendment since 8 May 2002. In February 2016, a constitutional resolution was passed making this Berber Language an official language alongside Arabic. Arabic is spoken by about 81% of Algerians, while Berber languages are spoken by 17%. French, though it has no official status, is still used in media and education due to Algeria's colonial history. Kabyle, with 3 million speakers, is the most spoken Berber language in the country, is taught and partially co-official in parts of Kabylie.