Harmonizing Algeria’s Public Accounting Framework with IPSAS: Operational Challenges and Insights from Belgium’s Reform Journey

Abstract

This research analyzes the alignment of the public accounting system of Algeria to the IPSAS standards, making use of the experience gained in Belgium in implementing reforms in the area of accrual accounting. After adopting the Organic Law No. 18-15 on Finance Laws and Law No. 23-07 on Public Accounting and Financial Management and, more importantly, the executive decree of January 9, 2025, on the state's general account, Algeria started moving towards a paradigmatic transformation from the conventional method of cash accounting to a three-dimensional accounting system (budgetary, general, and cost-accounting). This study applies the comparative and descriptive analytical approach in discussing the development of the reform process. The comparative analysis reveals that while Algeria has built an advanced legislative baseline, actual implementation faces critical operational hurdles, including the complexity of evaluating heritage and infrastructure assets and acute skill shortages among public accountants. In contrast, Belgium's journey since 2003 highlights the value of a phased implementation approach, rigorous capacity building, and institutional coordination across governance levels.