EXPLAINERNews|PoliticsAlgeria bill seeks to criminalise French colonial rule: What to knowAlgerian lawmakers are set to vote on Wednesday on the draft law, which parliament’s speaker calls a ‘defining milestone’.
The People's National Assembly of Algeria is currently reviewing a draft law aimed at criminalizing the French colonial rule of Algeria, which lasted from 1830 to 1962. This period was marked by significant human rights violations, including torture and…
The People's National Assembly of Algeria is currently reviewing a draft law aimed at criminalizing the French colonial rule of Algeria, which lasted from 1830 to 1962. This period was marked by significant human rights violations, including torture and economic exploitation.
The proposed law was introduced in Algeria's lower house of parliament and is scheduled for a vote on Wednesday. It comprises five chapters and 27 articles, focusing on principles of international law that emphasize legal redress and historical justice. The draft seeks to establish responsibility and obtain recognition and an apology for colonial crimes.
Speaker Ibrahim Boughali described the bill as a significant milestone in Algeria's modern history. He emphasized that it represents a sovereign act and a moral stance, reflecting Algeria's dedication to its rights and the sacrifices of its people. Boughali highlighted that the colonial impact extended beyond economic exploitation to systemic impoverishment and cultural erasure.
The People's National Assembly of Algeria is currently reviewing a draft law aimed at criminalizing the French colonial rule of Algeria, which lasted from 1830 to 1962.
As of now, the French government has not issued a response to the ongoing debate. However, French President Emmanuel Macron has previously stated that he would not apologize for the colonization but aims to work towards reconciliation with Algeria.
France's rule over Algeria ended after a war of independence from 1954 to 1962, resulting in approximately 1.5 million Algerian deaths. The French forces faced accusations of human rights abuses, including torture and forced displacements. In 2018, France acknowledged its responsibility for systemic torture during this period.
While Algeria and France maintain close ties, current relations are strained, partly due to France's recognition of Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara, which Algeria opposes. Tensions further escalated following the arrest of an Algerian diplomat in Paris, despite recent commitments by both nations to renew dialogue.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
