Algeria Passes Landmark Law Declaring French Colonisation a Crime

The Algerian parliament has passed a landmark law declaring French colonisation from 1830 to 1962 a crime against humanity. This historic legislation officially recognises the atrocities committed during over 130 years of French rule in Algeria.

The law describes the colonisation period as marked by:

• Mass killings
• Torture
• Large-scale deportations

Millions of Algerians endured severe repression while the colonial administration exploited the nation’s resources and population.

Key provisions of the new law include:

1. Algeria seeking international legal support to demand reparations from France.
2. Establishment of a National Day of Memory on July 5 to honour victims of colonisation, coinciding with Algeria’s independence day in 1962.
3. Incorporation of colonial history into school curricula to educate younger generations.

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune stated that the law “sends a powerful message to the world” and called for global recognition of the lasting effects of colonialism on Algeria’s societal, economic, and cultural fabric.

While this law might strain relations between Algeria and France—who have denied colonial-era wrongdoing—Algerian officials stress the need for justice and historical truth as foundations for national healing and reconciliation.

Human rights advocates in Algeria have praised the legislation as an important move toward accountability and restoring human dignity. International observers see Algeria’s stance as part of a wider global movement by former colonies seeking recognition and restitution for historical injustices.

To support implementation, Algeria plans to hold public forums and educational campaigns in collaboration with civil society groups and historians to ensure broad awareness and understanding of the law’s goals.

For ongoing updates on this development and related international news, stay tuned to Questiqa Europe News.

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