Algerian parliament votes to criminalize French colonial era

Algeria’s lower house of parliament, the People’s National Assembly, voted unanimously on Wednesday to pass a law that criminalizes the French colonial era in Algeria from 1830 to 1962. The session, attended by Speaker Brahim Boughali, was broadcast live on state television.

Next Steps in Legislation

The law will now be sent to the Council of the Nation, the upper house of parliament, for final approval before being published in the Official Gazette and entering into force. This marks the first time Algeria’s parliament has approved such a measure in a public session, formally condemning the more than 130‑year period of French colonial rule.

Context of Diplomatic Tensions

The legislative move occurs during one of the most serious crises in recent Algeria‑France relations. Tensions have escalated sharply after France recognized Morocco’s autonomy plan for the disputed territory of Western Sahara. Algeria supports the right to self‑determination for the Sahrawi people and backs the Polisario Front, which opposes Morocco’s proposal. This divergence has deepened existing historical sensitivities between Algiers and Paris.