Algeria's parliament has unanimously passed a law declaring France's colonisation of the North African state a crime, and demanding an apology and reparations. The law also criminalises the glorification of colonialism, according to state-run TV reports.
This legislative move is a symptom of the increasingly strained diplomatic relations between Algeria and France, with many observers arguing that ties are at their lowest since Algeria's independence 63 years ago.
The colonisation period, which lasted from 1830 until 1962, is remembered for its brutality and mass violence, with Algeria claiming the war of independence led to the death of approximately 1.5 million people, while French historians suggest a significantly lower figure.
French President Emmanuel Macron has acknowledged the events as a crime against humanity but has not issued an official apology. During the parliamentary vote, Algerian lawmakers showed their national pride, wearing scarves in the colors of the national flag and chanting “long live Algeria” to celebrate the bill's approval.
The new law clarifies that France holds legal responsibility for the tragedies caused during colonisation and outlines the need for a comprehensive reparations plan, emphasizing that restitution is a fundamental right for the Algerian people.
France has yet to respond to this significant legislation, which emerges amid increasing global discourse on reparations concerning colonial histories. Lawmakers in Algeria are also calling for France to return key cultural artifacts, including a historic bronze cannon.
This fallout in relations intensified following recent French recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, a move seen unfavorably by Algeria, which has staunchly supported the independence movement in the region.
In a broader context, Algeria hosted a conference advocating for reparations among African states, further highlighting the momentum for justice concerning historical grievances.
