The Algerian Parliament approved an amended version of the law criminalizing French colonization on Monday, March 9, 2026, notably removing previous demands for official apologies and widespread financial reparations.
The vote took place during a plenary session chaired by Brahim Boughali and attended by the Minister of Mujahideen and Veterans Affairs, Abdelmalek Tacherift, alongside the Minister for Relations with Parliament, Nadjiba Djilali. This final text differs significantly from the version passed in late 2025, which had explicitly held the French state legally responsible for the tragedies of its colonial past.
The rapporteur for the joint committee, Faouzi Bendjaballah, explained that the removal of reparation demands reflects a principled stance, asserting that Algeria will not trade its national memory or sovereignty for material advantages. Instead of seeking a formal apology, the law now focuses on a broader strategic objective: using all legal means to ensure France officially recognizes the historical crimes committed during the colonial period. This shift is presented by Algiers as a significant step toward formalizing the recognition of colonial-era atrocities while maintaining the dignity of the millions who died during the struggle for independence.
In addition to these structural changes, the legislation introduced specific terminological shifts and maintained key protections for certain groups. The law now refers to the Harkis—Algerians who served as auxiliaries to the French army—as having committed “treason” rather than “high treason.” Importantly, the final version preserved provisions regarding the victims of French nuclear tests conducted in southern Algeria, keeping intact the articles that provide for financial compensation to those affected.
This legislative move comes during a period of complex diplomacy between Algiers and Paris. While the relationship remains historically tense, the amendment follows recent signs of a potential thaw, including a high-profile visit to Algiers by French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. By recalibrating its legal approach to the “memory file,” the Algerian government appears to be balancing its firm historical grievances with the pragmatic needs of current bilateral relations.
AK/Sf/fss/abj/APA