The Algerian government recently hosted the National Assemblies on Memory and History in Algiers, under the patronage of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The event aimed to develop a national strategy for preserving history, protecting archives, and combating revisionism. Minister of Mujahideen and Rights Holders, Abdelmalek Tacherift, emphasized the significance of the assemblies, stating that they reflect the government's commitment to prioritizing the nation's memory.
Minister Tacherift highlighted that the national memory is a guiding force for the people, helping to preserve their history and strengthen their national identity. He stressed that the assemblies aim to engage all sectors and components of society in a concerted effort to address the issue of national memory. The minister noted that the president's personal involvement in the matter marks a significant shift in the government's approach to this issue.
The assemblies come amid attempts to falsify history and spread revisionist discourse targeting national symbols. Minister Tacherift emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to protect national identity and inform future generations. The government is preparing a draft law on national memory, which aims to reinforce the protection of historical heritage, national symbols, and archives.
The Director-General of the National Archives, Mohamed Ben Amara, highlighted the crucial role of archives in constituting the nation's memorial heritage. He stressed that preserving archives is essential in the context of the president's orientations and the draft law on national memory. Ben Amara called for an integrated national vision for memory governance.
The assemblies brought together representatives from institutions, national organizations, associations, researchers, historians, and mujahideen. Discussions focused on the future of national memory and history in Algeria, covering topics such as preserving archives, developing historical research, and collecting oral testimonies.
The participants examined ways to strengthen the transmission of history, particularly among young generations, and explored the potential of digital platforms and multimedia tools. They also proposed institutionalizing the National Day of Memory, recovering the remains of resistance figures, and expanding the network of moudjahid museums.
The recommendations from the assemblies will inform the national strategy, aiming to provide coherence to conservation and research efforts while ensuring rigorous transmission of history to future generations. The government's initiative seeks to safeguard Algeria's history and national identity.
Key points
- The Algerian government has launched a comprehensive strategy to preserve national memory and history, counter revisionism, and protect national symbols.
- The National Assemblies on Memory and History aim to engage all sectors of society in preserving Algeria's history and national identity.
- A draft law on national memory is being prepared to reinforce the protection of historical heritage, national symbols, and archives.