The Algerian parliament unanimously passed a law declaring French colonialism a "crime" and criminalizing any praise or glorification of colonialism, while diplomatic relations between the two countries plunged to their lowest point in six decades.
The Algerian parliament unanimously approved a new law stating that France's colonization of Algeria is a "crime" and making any glorification or praise of colonialism illegal. State television reported that the law also calls on France to issue a formal apology and provide compensation for damages.
This law was passed amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations, with many observers rating relations at their lowest since Algeria gained independence 63 years ago.
The colonial period from 1830 to 1962 involved widespread killings, mass deportations, and ended with a bloody war for independence. Algeria estimates 1.5 million deaths, while French historians put the numbers much lower.
President Emmanuel Macron has acknowledged that colonization of Algeria was a crime against humanity but has yet to issue an official apology.
Reports say that in the parliamentary chamber, members wore scarves in national flag colors and chanted "Long live Algeria" while applauding the law's adoption. Key provisions state France is legally responsible for the tragedy caused and that full and fair compensation is an "inalienable right" of the Algerian state and people. France has not yet commented on the decision.
This development comes amid growing pressure on Western nations to compensate for damages from slavery and colonialism, including demands for the return of cultural artifacts taken illegally and held in foreign museums. Algeria has called for France to return the 16th-century bronze cannon "Bab Merzouga," believed to be a protective symbol of Algiers and removed by French forces in 1830. It is currently displayed in Brest, in northwestern France.
Previously, in 2020, France returned the remains of 24 Algerian fighters who resisted colonial forces in the 19th century. Last month, Algeria hosted an African countries' meeting pushing justice and compensation issues. Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf said the legal framework would ensure compensation is not viewed as a "gift or favor."
Relations further deteriorated last year when Macron recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and supported a limited autonomy plan, while Algeria backed the Polisario Front seeking independence and is a key ally.
In another case, French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal was arrested at Algiers airport and sentenced to five years in prison on charges of undermining national security for remarks seen as challenging the country’s borders, before being pardoned by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune last month.
. BBC