Algiers, January 22, 2026 – The Algerian Council of the Nation (Senate) today approved a law criminalizing French colonialism in Algeria, albeit with reservations regarding 13 specific articles within the legislation.
These 13 articles, subject to contention, will now be reviewed by a joint committee comprised of representatives from both the National People’s Assembly (the lower house of Parliament) and the Senate. This mechanism aligns with established constitutional procedures designed to resolve disagreements on legislative provisions.
The preliminary report on the proposed law generally praised the bill’s provisions. However, it explicitly voiced reservations concerning certain articles, particularly those addressing the issues of compensation and apologies related to the colonial era.
The Senate’s National Defense Committee justified its stance by citing a perceived inconsistency between these specific articles and the national policy established by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. This policy prioritizes demanding recognition of colonial crimes without necessarily focusing on financial reparations or formal apologies.
The committee emphasized the need for harmony between Algeria’s sovereign political position and the legislative framework that governs it. They stressed that certain provisions of the approved text require further refinement and restructuring in terms of both wording and substance.
These adjustments are deemed necessary to enhance the overall quality of the legislation, ensure its coherence and precision, and ultimately solidify its legal and institutional effectiveness. The committee suggests a series of improvements and corrections to achieve these objectives. The approved law is considered a significant step in addressing the legacy of colonialism in Algeria.
