Persistent Population Disparities in Algeria (1977–2019): A Lorenz Curve and Gini Coefficient Analysis of Territorial Development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22399/ijcesen.5234Keywords:
Algeria, Spatial inequality, Lorenz curve, Gini coefficient, Regional developmentAbstract
The geographical distribution of the population is a key indicator for understanding the nature of spatial organization and the degree of balance among regions within a country. In this context, this study aims to analyze the evolution of population distribution in Algeria during the period from 1977 to 2019, using a quantitative approach based on the Lorenz curve and the Gini coefficient to measure the degree of spatial inequality. The study relied on official statistical data at the provincial level, where cumulative percentages of population and area were used as the basis for constructing analytical indicators and representing them graphically.The methodology involves processing the data in ascending order of geographic units, allowing for the identification of patterns of concentration and disparity in population distribution over time and linking them to the characteristics of the national territory. The study also seeks to highlight the multiple dimensions of spatial imbalance by analyzing its demographic, economic, social, and environmental implications within a framework that integrates quantitative measurement with spatial interpretation.This study aims to: measure the degree of spatial imbalance in population distribution using standardized quantitative indicators, analyze the implications of this distribution for spatial development trajectories, and explore the potential for developing a strategic approach to restoring regional balance within the framework of sustainable development. This study derives its significance from its contribution to enhancing the quantitative understanding of spatial imbalances and supporting public policy orientations aimed at achieving greater spatial equity and economic efficiency
References
[1]M. A.T. E.(2005), Rapport sur l’état et l’avenir de l’environnement 2005.
[2]M. E. A.T.(1995), Demain L’Algérie –l’état du territoire la reconquête du territoire-, les dossier de l’aménagement du territoire.
[3]Lorenz, M. O. (1905). Methods of measuring the concentration of wealth. Publications of the American Statistical Association, 9(70), 209 – 219.
[4]Siddiq F. K. et al. (2023), Applying the Lorenz curve and Gini Coefficient to measure the population distribution, International Atlantic Economic Society, P.(177-192). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11294-023-09874
[5]O. N. S.(2020), Statistical Retrospective 1962 – 2020,.
[6]Fan, C. C. (1997). Uneven development and beyond: Regional development theory in post-Mao China. International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, 21(4), 620-639. https://doi.org/101111/1468-2427.00093
[7]Fujita, M., Krugman, P., & Venables, A. J. (1999). The spatial economy: Cities, regions, and international trade. MIT Press.
[8]Fatima TAHRAOUI (2011), Evolution de la population et découpages administratifs en Algérie, le cas de la wilaya d’Oran, Cahiers Géographiques de l'Ouest, N° 11 décembre 2011,P. 79 – 90.
[9]ANAAT. (2015) ; Programme region, as defined by the Regional Spatial Development Plan (SRAT).
[10]Akita, T. (2003). "Devaluing the provinces: Decomposing regional income inequality in Indonesia, 1975–1998". The Annals of Regional Science, 37(2), 261-281.
[11]Novotný, J. (2007). "On the measurement of regional inequality: does spatial scale of analysis matter?". Annals of Regional Science, 41(3), 563-580
[12]Ministere de l’interieur, des collectivites locales et des transports, Monographie des wilayas [archive], sur interieur.gov.dz (consulté le 13 janvier 2024).
[13]Sen, A. (1973). On economic inequality. Clarendon Press - Oxford, ISBN 0-19-829297-X (hbk), ISBN 0-19-828193-5 (pbk).
[14]Todaro, M. P. & Smith, S. C. (2015). Economic development (11th ed.). Pearson. ISBN 10: 0-13-801388-8, ISBN 13: 978-0-13-801388-2
[15]DATAR. (2003). Les grands textes de l’aménagement du territoire et de la décentralisation, la Documentation française – Paris. ISBN : 2-11-005239-2 ISSN : 1152-4928
[16]World Bank. (2013). China 2030: Building a modern, harmonious, and creative society. World Bank. ISBN (paper): 978-0-8213-9545-5, ISBN (electronic): 978-0-8213-9756-5
[17]UN-Habitat. (2016). Urbanization and development: Emerging futures. United Nations. ISBN Number (Series): 978-92-1-133395-4, ISBN Number (Volume): 978-92-1-132708-3
[18]World Bank. (2018). China Systematic Country Diagnostic: Towards a More Inclusive and Sustainable Development,
[19]World Bank. (2026). World development indicators. https://databank.worldbank.org/source/world-development-indicators
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Computational and Experimental Science and Engineering
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
