Beyond Apologies: How Algeria’s Reckoning with Colonialism Reflects a Historic Power Shift

A leading historian argues that France’s current hardline stance toward Algeria stems from a colonial-era mindset within its ruling elite, who view Algerian independence as a historic loss and reject an equal partnership. This posture is compounded by the decline of France’s traditional influence, attributed to the disappearance of pro-French Algerian elites. Consequently, France has become a secondary power for Algeria, with its entrenched refusal to address historical grievances now clashing with Algeria’s sovereign position. The analysis concludes that France’s criminalization of colonialismContinue Reading

ce que l’Algérie va demander à la France

Algeria is advancing a landmark law to formally criminalize French colonialism, holding the French state legally responsible for crimes committed during its 132-year occupation. The proposed legislation categorizes colonial acts—including mass killings, forced displacement, and cultural erasure—as imprescriptible crimes against humanity. Its core demands are a full French recognition of these crimes, a formal apology, and financial reparations. This move represents a significant escalation in Algeria’s long-standing pursuit of historical justice, directly challenging FranceContinue Reading