Algeria Criminalises French Colonial Rule, Demands Apology and Reparations

In a landmark move, Algeria’s parliament has unanimously approved a law declaring France’s colonial rule a crime. The law also demands an apology and reparations from France for the atrocities caused during its rule from 1830 to 1962.

Historical Background and Context

France's colonial rule over Algeria spanned over a century, marked by mass killings and large-scale deportations. The law condemns this era, highlighting the tragedies caused and holds France legally responsible for its colonial past in Algeria. The legislation also criminalises the glorification of French colonialism, which resulted in the deaths of at least 1.5 million Algerians during the war of independence between 1954 and 1962.

Key Developments

Lawmakers, wearing scarves in the colours of the national flag, chanted “long live Algeria” as they applauded the passage of the bill on Wednesday, December 24, as reported by multiple sources including Al Jazeera English, Le Monde, and The Guardian. The law not only criminalises French colonial rule but also seeks accountability and reparations for the colonial past. This legislative move comes amidst escalating diplomatic tensions between Algiers and Paris, with issues even extending to the Western Sahara issue and the arrest of writer Sansal, as noted by Corriere della Sera.

Implications and Reactions

The passage of the law signifies a major turning point in the relationship between Algeria and France, with potential implications for diplomatic relations, as suggested by the South China Morning Post. The law could further strain ties between the two nations, already tense due to ongoing disputes over the Western Sahara issue and the arrest of a popular writer.

Algeria's demand for reparations also includes a call for the return of looted artefacts and a formal apology from Paris for the 132-year occupation, as per the report by Middle East Eye. However, the specifics of what these reparations might entail have not been detailed in any of the sources reviewed.

Current Status

At present, there has been no official response from France regarding the law or Algeria's demands for an apology and reparations. The unanimous approval of the law by Algeria's parliament underlines the seriousness of the issue for the North African nation and its quest for justice for the colonial past. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how this law will impact the broader diplomatic landscape between Algeria and France, and potentially, their relationships with other nations.

The unanimous approval of this law by Algeria's parliament marks a significant step in the nation's efforts to address the dark chapter of French colonial rule in its history. As the repercussions of this law unfold, it will be closely watched by international observers and could set a precedent for other nations grappling with the legacies of colonial rule.