Algeria to vote on law criminalizing colonial rule
Draft legislation aims to hold France accountable for historical abuses during colonization, highlighting Algeria’s pursuit of justice and sovereignty
ALGIERS, Algeria (MNTV) — Algerian lawmakers are set to vote on a draft law that would criminalize France’s colonial rule in Algeria, a move described by the parliament speaker as a “defining milestone” in the nation’s contemporary history.
The legislation, scheduled for discussion on December 24 in the People’s National Assembly, is designed to formally acknowledge France’s actions during its colonization of Algeria from 1830 to 1962.
The draft comprises five chapters and 27 articles, citing international law principles in support of historical justice and legal accountability.
Speaker Ibrahim Boughalii introduced the bill, calling it “a supreme act of sovereignty, a clear moral stance, and an unambiguous political message,” emphasizing Algeria’s recognition of its people’s sacrifices.
He added that French rule extended beyond resource exploitation, involving “systematic impoverishment, starvation and exclusion” aimed at erasing Algerian identity.
French colonization of Algeria, lasting more than 130 years, was marked by widespread abuses, including massacres, enforced disappearances, torture, and economic exploitation.
Algeria gained independence in 1962 following a war that left up to 1.5 million dead and displaced millions. While France has acknowledged responsibility for systematic torture during the conflict, it has yet to issue a formal apology.
Bilateral relations have further deteriorated since July 2024, when France recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, a decision strongly opposed by Algeria.
Tensions intensified in April 2025 after an Algerian consular official was indicted in France over an alleged abduction of a dissident, prompting Algeria to expel 12 French embassy staff in retaliation.
Observers caution that the December 24 parliamentary vote could further strain diplomatic ties, adding a sensitive dimension to the already complex Algeria–France relationship. The French government has not yet issued an official response to Algeria’s upcoming debate.
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