French historian Benjamin Stora, specializing in colonialism and memory issues, has attributed the ongoing diplomatic crisis between Algeria and France to an elite group of French politicians who refuse to acknowledge Algeria's independence and sovereignty. In a video posted on his Facebook account, Stora stated that these politicians deliberately create crises and stir up tensions. He heads the joint commission discussing the memory file from the French side.
Stora explained that Algeria is not like other countries subjected to French colonialism, citing the massive French military presence during the liberation revolution, the large number of European settlers who left after 1962, and the Algerian immigrants in France. These factors, he said, significantly impact the French electoral scene. Algeria is the largest country in Africa by area and the largest gas exporter, making it a crucial player in the region.
The historian pointed to the challenges he faced in France due to his stance on colonialism, particularly regarding French colonialism in Algeria. He mentioned being blacklisted by former President Nicolas Sarkozy from 2006 to 2009 because of his positions. Stora emphasized that geography plays a significant role in shaping history.
Commenting on current relations between Algeria and France, Stora described them as being at a "frightening level of rupture." He stressed the need to address the issues and clarify the responsibilities of each party to identify the source of the problem. Stora acknowledged the difficulty of the task, given the 132-year legacy of French colonialism in Algeria.
Stora views the phenomenon of Algerian immigrants in France as one of the tragedies created by French colonialism, describing it as a forced transfer of populations. He believes that addressing the problem requires haste, given the strong human, cultural, and economic ties between the two countries.
The French historian holds the French side responsible for the current state of bilateral relations, citing a lack of response to Algerian aspirations regarding the memory file. He mentioned that despite progress on the memory file, the French side did not reciprocate, leading to the current crisis.
Stora concluded that the memory file is an ongoing process that cannot be interrupted and requires step-by-step work to achieve the desired goals. He emphasized that the Algerians have the right to demand an apology and recognition of French crimes, as well as addressing issues related to nuclear explosions and looted archives.
Key points
- French historian Benjamin Stora attributes the Algeria-France crisis to French politicians' inability to accept Algeria's sovereignty.
- Stora emphasizes the need for France to acknowledge its colonial past and take responsibility for its actions.
- The historian views the current state of bilateral relations as a result of French inaction and lack of response to Algerian aspirations.
