The Algerian Parliament has unanimously passed a groundbreaking bill officially classifying France's colonial occupation as a crime. This significant legislation, approved on Wednesday, not only condemns historical injustices from the 132-year French rule but also formally demands reparations and an official apology. Furthermore, the bill criminalises any glorification of colonialism within Algeria, reflecting a resolute stance on national memory and accountability.
This parliamentary resolution asserts France's "legal responsibility" for the immense suffering and devastation inflicted upon Algeria. It unequivocally states that full and fair compensation for all material and moral damages is an "inalienable right." The indictment details numerous colonial transgressions, including illicit nuclear testing, extrajudicial killings, systematic torture, and extensive resource plundering, illustrating the enduring legacy of French dominion.
This legislative action occurs at a time when diplomatic relations between Algeria and France are reportedly at their lowest point since Algeria gained independence 63 years ago. The French capture of Algiers in 1830 initiated an era of subjugation that profoundly scarred Algerian society. The parliament's speaker, Ibrahim Boughali, emphasised the bill's importance, stating it sends a clear message that Algeria’s national memory is neither erasable nor negotiable.
Beyond broader pronouncements, the legislation specifically demands the repatriation of a significant historical artifact: the 16th-century bronze cannon, Baba Merzoug. This cannon was seized by French troops in 1830 and is currently displayed in Brest, France. The demand underscores Algeria's aspiration for the return of looted cultural heritage, aligning with a growing global movement for accountability regarding colonial histories.
While the bill’s immediate impact is largely symbolic, its passage represents a potent political statement. It amplifies Algeria's long-held grievances and contributes to the international discourse on reparations for historical injustices. This move signifies Algeria’s determination to assert its historical narrative and seek redress for the profound consequences of French colonisation, potentially initiating a new phase of diplomatic engagement or confrontation. The Algerian government's action is likely to increase pressure on France to confront its colonial past more directly and engage in substantive dialogue.