Algeria’s parliament unanimously passed a law on 24 December, 2025 declaring France’s colonial rule from 1830 to 1962 a state crime. The law demands a formal apology and compensation from France. State news agency reported that members of parliament wore scarves in the national colors and chanted “Long live Algeria” as the law was passed.
Leaders said the issue was deeply connected to the country’s history and national memory. However, there has been no official response from France on the matter yet.
Main Provisions of the Law
The new law consists of a total of 27 articles. It calls for the French state to accept legal responsibility for various crimes committed during the colonial period. The law mentions extrajudicial killings, torture and the planned looting of natural resources.
It also identifies nuclear tests in the Sahara region as serious crimes. The law states that Algeria has the right to fair and full compensation for these events.
Historical Background
Demands for legislation on French colonial rule in Algeria date back decades. The first such demand was raised in 1984, but it was repeatedly postponed. In 2005, a controversial French law sparked renewed anger, which was said to teach the “positive role” of colonialism.
Then in 2021, more than a hundred lawmakers took a strong stance on the issue. The law has been described as a moral obligation to the sacrifice of martyrs.
France-Algeria Relations
Recently, diplomatic relations between Algeria and France have deteriorated further. Migration, historical liabilities and the Western Sahara issue have increased these tensions.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the colonial rule a “crime against humanity” in 2021, but did not formally apologize. France described the law as a “hostile initiative.” Nevertheless, the Algerian leadership has expressed hope for a solution through direct negotiations.
Watch the video here.
@alarabiya_eng Algeria’s parliament unanimously approves a law declaring France’s colonization of the country a crime and demanding an apology and reparations.
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