January 2026 , Pages 162-186
Asst.Prof.Dr.Muhannad Khalifa Obaid Obaid 1 ; Dr.Awlad Ibrahim Laila Laila 2 ; T. Karami Khadija Khadija 3 ; Dr. Daqish Jamal Jamal 4
1 University of Fallujah, Fallujah (Iraq), Professor
2 University of Ghardaia (Algeria), Lecturer A, Laboratory of Applied Studies in Financial and Accounting Sciences EASFC
3 University of Ghardaia, Ghardaia (Algeria)
4 Higher School of Economics Oran, Lecturer A, Oran (Algeria)
This study aims to analyze the impact of financial inclusion on the unemployment rate (social dimension) in Algeria during the period 2004–2022, using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to measure the relationship in both the short and long run. The study employed two methodologies: a descriptive approach, reviewing theoretical literature on financial inclusion and social development, and an applied quantitative approach using data from the Bank of Algeria and the World Bank. Statistical tools such as the stability test, the bounds test for cointegration, the long-run model, and the ECM (Error Correction Coefficient) were utilized. The results showed that the relationship between financial inclusion and the unemployment rate (social dimension) is not uniform. Credit extended to the private sector was the most significant variable in improving the social indicator (unemployment rate) in the long run, while the impact of bank branches and ATMs was limited and insignificant, with short-term negative repercussions from sudden changes in credit. The ECM also confirmed a long-run equilibrium relationship between the variables and a rapid return to equilibrium after imbalances. Based on these results, the study recommended the need to redirect financial policies to serve social inclusion, through the digitization of financial services and their expansion towards remote areas, encouraging electronic payment and financial innovation, reducing the costs of banking transactions for low-income groups, in addition to promoting financial literacy and partnership between the banking sector and social institutions to finance small and medium-sized enterprises aimed at reducing unemployment and improving basic services.