Algeria's legislative body has unanimously enacted a new law that officially classifies France's colonization of the North African nation as a criminal act, while also calling for an apology and reparations.
State television reports indicate the legislation further prohibits any glorification of colonial practices.
This parliamentary decision reflects the deteriorating diplomatic relations between Algeria and France, with analysts noting tensions are at their highest since Algeria achieved independence 63 years ago.
France's colonial rule over Algeria from 1830 to 1962 involved widespread violence, including mass killings and deportations, culminating in a brutal independence war. Algerian authorities estimate 1.5 million fatalities, whereas French historians report significantly lower figures.
French President Emmanuel Macron has previously acknowledged colonization constituted a "crime against humanity," though he has stopped short of issuing a formal apology.
During the parliamentary session, legislators donned national flag-colored scarves and cheered "long live Algeria" as the bill was passed, according to AFP news agency.
The law asserts France bears "legal responsibility" for the "tragedies it caused," and that "full and fair" compensation represents an "inalienable right of the Algerian state and people."
France has not yet responded to the legislative action.
This development occurs amid increasing global demands for Western nations to provide reparations for historical slavery and colonialism, and to return cultural artifacts taken during colonial periods.
Algerian officials have specifically requested the return of Baba Merzoug, a 16th-century bronze cannon considered the protector of Algiers, which French forces seized in 1830 and currently resides in Brest, France.
In 2020, France repatriated the remains of 24 Algerian resistance fighters from the 19th century.
Last month, Algeria organized a conference for African nations to advocate for justice and reparations related to colonial history.
Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf emphasized that a legal framework would ensure restitution is not perceived as "a gift nor a favour."
Diplomatic relations worsened last year when France recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and supported limited autonomy for the disputed territory, while Algeria backs the pro-independence Polisario Front.
Recently, French-Algerian novelist Boualem Sansal was detained at Algiers airport and sentenced to five years imprisonment before receiving a presidential pardon last month, with prosecutors alleging he endangered national security by questioning Algeria's borders.
