An Algerian law criminalizing French colonization has been officially enforced after its publication in the country’s Official Gazette. The law condemns France’s colonization of Algeria from 1830 to 1962 as a “state crime” along with its lasting effects. It identifies 31 colonization crimes, including intentional homicide and the use of prohibited weapons.
Officials have hailed the law as a move to preserve national memory and honor sacrifices made during the colonial era. Algeria aims to secure France’s acknowledgment of its colonial past through legal and judicial means. The legislation also addresses issues like the nuclear explosion and the return of allegedly looted Treasury assets.
Individuals found promoting colonization to justify or deny its criminal nature will face imprisonment and fines. The Algerian parliament passed a draft law in April criminalizing French colonization, following the lower house’s approval a month earlier. The lower house had previously called for an official apology from France and reparations for Algeria.
Algeria’s President clarified that the country seeks recognition of crimes rather than financial compensation from France. A joint parliamentary committee was formed to reconcile differences between the two houses and create a unified text. The final version of the law, endorsed by both houses, focused on victims of French nuclear tests in the Sahara.
Tensions between Algeria and France have escalated recently due to disagreements over immigration, historical issues, and France’s stance on Western Sahara. President Tebboune emphasized the need for direct dialogue with President Macron to address bilateral concerns. In 2021, Macron acknowledged colonization in Algeria as a “crime against humanity” but refrained from issuing a formal apology.
