Algeria Passes Law Declaring French Colonisation a Crime, Demands Apology and Reparations

In a unanimous vote, Algeria's parliament has approved a law declaring France's colonisation of the North African state a crime, marking a significant escalation in the strained diplomatic relations between the two countries. The law, which was passed on Wednesday, also demands an apology and reparations from France for its colonial rule, which lasted from 1830 to 1962.

According to the law, France's colonisation of Algeria was marked by mass killings, large-scale deportations, and ended in a bloody war of independence. The law also criminalises the glorification of colonialism, a move that is seen as a direct challenge to France's historical narrative. Algerian lawmakers, standing in the chamber wearing scarves in the colours of the national flag, chanted "Long live Algeria" as they voted on the bill, according to The Guardian.

The vote is the latest sign of increasingly strained diplomatic relations between the two countries, with some observers saying they are at their lowest since Algeria gained independence 63 years ago. France's colonisation of Algeria is a highly sensitive topic, with many Algerians still seeking justice and reparations for the atrocities committed during that period. "This law is a major step forward in our fight for justice and recognition of the suffering of our people," said an Algerian parliamentarian, according to AFP.

The law is seen as a response to France's refusal to acknowledge the atrocities committed during its colonial rule. In 2020, France returned the remains of 24 Algerian resistance fighters, a move that was seen as a small step towards reconciliation. However, many Algerians feel that France has not done enough to acknowledge its past mistakes and provide reparations.

The passage of the law is likely to further strain relations between Algeria and France, which have been deteriorating in recent years. The two countries have had a complex relationship since Algeria gained independence in 1962, with France maintaining significant economic and cultural ties to the country. However, the legacy of colonialism continues to be a major point of contention between the two nations.

Experts say that the law is a significant development in the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition of the suffering of Algerians during the colonial period. "This law is a major victory for the Algerian people, who have been fighting for decades to have their suffering recognised and acknowledged," said a human rights expert, according to BBC World. "It is a significant step towards reconciliation and justice, but it is also a reminder of the ongoing struggle for recognition and reparations."

The current status of the law is unclear, with no immediate indication of how France will respond to the demands for an apology and reparations. However, the passage of the law is likely to further escalate tensions between the two countries, with many Algerians calling for greater action to be taken to address the legacy of colonialism.