Algiers – The Algerian National People’s Assembly (APN) today unanimously approved a landmark bill criminalizing French colonialism in Algeria. The vote, held during a public session presided over by APN Speaker Ibrahim Boughali, was attended by the Minister of Relations with Parliament, Nadjiba Djilali, and several other government officials.
The new law, comprised of five chapters and 27 articles, is rooted in international legal principles affirming the right of peoples to legal redress, the pursuit of historical justice, and accountability for crimes without impunity.
The core objective of the legislation is to comprehensively document the crimes committed by French colonial authorities in Algeria and to establish the responsibility of the French state for these actions. It also seeks to create formal mechanisms for demanding recognition and an apology from France.
Furthermore, the law includes provisions that criminalize any form of glorification or promotion of colonialism, classifying such acts as offenses. The approved bill emphasizes that this legislative step is intended to solidify and safeguard national memory, fostering genuine reconciliation with history based on acknowledging and legally establishing responsibilities.
This law is seen as a crucial step in Algeria’s ongoing efforts to address the legacy of French colonialism and to ensure that the historical injustices are properly acknowledged and addressed. The move underscores Algeria’s commitment to preserving its national identity and demanding accountability for past wrongdoings.
