Algeria’s parliament unanimously passed a bill on Wednesday, December 24, criminalizing french colonization of the country between 1830 and 1962, a move signaling a sharp escalation in tensions between the two nations. The legislation doesn’t just address ancient grievances; it compels the Algerian state to pursue official recognition and apologies from France for a litany of abuses, including the seizure of resources, nuclear testing, torture, and forced disappearances.
The bill also asserts Algeria’s right to seek compensation for damages incurred during the colonial period, though it notably stops short of mandating any specific action to achieve this. This cautious approach suggests Algerian lawmakers recognize the complexities of pursuing reparations, despite precedents such as Italy’s 2008 apology to Libya.
This move aligns with a broader trend among formerly colonized nations seeking the return of archives, artwork, human remains, and formal apologies from former colonial powers. However, understanding the bill requires considering both the fraught bilateral relationship with france and the current political landscape within Algeria.
The legislation is widely seen as a response to what Algerians perceive as denialist rhetoric from segments of the French far-right and mainstream right regarding the realities of colonization, as well as the targeting of French citizens and immigrants of North African descent. it also appears to be a reaction to a perceived shift in France’s Maghreb policy, favoring Morocco.
A Dual Break with Tradition
Observers note that the Algerian deputies seem to disregard progress made in recent years regarding the historical dispute, despite its known limitations. The bill also appears to overlook the deep economic, cultural, and human ties between the two countries, as well as the broader international context and the rise of the far-right in France.
