Algeria Passes Law Declaring French Colonisation a Crime

Algeria's parliament has unanimously approved a landmark law declaring France's colonisation of the country a crime. The legislation, passed on Wednesday, asserts that France holds legal responsibility for its colonial past and the resulting tragedies.

The law specifically addresses the period of French rule from 1830 to 1962, which is described as being marked by mass killings and large-scale deportation. In addition to the legal declaration, the bill formally demands an apology and reparations from France for its historical actions.

Algeria's parliament passed the new law with a unanimous vote, signaling a unified political front on the issue. The legislative session was marked by a display of national pride, with lawmakers standing in the chamber wearing scarves in the colours of the national flag.

As the bill was passed, members of parliament applauded and chanted 'long live Algeria.' The legislation formally states that France bears legal responsibility for its actions during the colonial era.

The law focuses on the historical period of French rule over Algeria, which lasted from 1830 to 1962. According to the legislation, this era was characterized by severe violence and oppression against the Algerian people.

The text of the law specifically cites that France's rule was marked by mass killings and large-scale deportation. These historical events are central to the Algerian government's justification for the new law and its demands for accountability.

Beyond declaring the colonisation a crime, the law includes specific demands directed at the French government. The primary objectives are an official apology and financial reparations for the damages caused during the colonial period.

The bill explicitly states that France must acknowledge its legal responsibility for the 'tragedies it caused.' This legislative action elevates the historical dispute to a matter of formal legal and diplomatic contention.

This move by Algeria's parliament is expected to have significant implications for diplomatic relations between Algeria and France. By codifying the colonial period as a crime, the Algerian government has established a firm position for future negotiations and discussions regarding historical accountability.

The unanimous passage of the bill demonstrates a strong consensus within the country's political landscape on the importance of addressing the legacy of colonialism. It remains to be seen how the French government will respond to these formal accusations and demands.