French historian Benjamin Stora recently spoke at the 29th edition of the Algiers International Book Fair, where he discussed the complex history between Algeria and France. In an interview with the Arabic-language newspaper Ech-Chaâb, Stora criticized the way some French media outlets cover Algerian affairs, often portraying the country as a scapegoat for France's problems. He noted that this narrative reflects a resurgence of what he termed the "unspoken truth of colonial consciousness."
Stora emphasized that the colonial period has left deep scars in Algeria, which was not only a colony but also an administratively annexed territory without granting citizenship to most Muslim Algerians. The creation of a large settler colony, with nearly a million inhabitants by 1962, makes the French colonial project exceptional. Stora highlighted that the duration and intensity of this experience make it difficult for France to confront its colonial past, even today.
The historian also discussed the issue of assets stolen from Algeria during the colonial period. He mentioned that he had proposed making archives related to nuclear tests and other chemical operations conducted during the war accessible. Additionally, he suggested establishing a register of people who disappeared during the war. However, Stora noted that none of the assets claimed by Algeria have been returned, including the Baba Merzoug cannon and items related to Emir Abdelkader.
Stora expressed hope that the situation could change if the French National Assembly passes a law on colonial-era assets that should be returned not only to Algeria but also to other African countries. However, he fears that this process may be blocked if the far-right in France comes to power. He stressed that a genuine apology from the French government would not be enough to resolve the disputes inherited from the colonial period.
The historian highlighted that the memory of the colonial period goes beyond symbolic recognitions and includes issues such as French nuclear tests in the Algerian Sahara, disappeared persons during the war of independence, access to archives, and the ongoing consequences of these events. He noted that his report included proposals on several of these issues, but progress has been limited.
Stora's comments come as the Algiers International Book Fair continues, with this year's edition featuring various events and discussions. The book fair, which runs from October 28 to November 7, aims to promote literature and cultural exchange. Stora's participation in the event underscores the ongoing efforts to address the complex history between Algeria and France.
The restitution of colonial-era assets remains a contentious issue between Algeria and France. Stora's warnings about the potential blockage of this process by the far-right in France add to the complexity of the situation. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how this issue will be addressed in the future.
Key points
- The far-right in France may hinder the return of stolen assets to Algeria if they come to power.
- Historian Benjamin Stora proposes making archives related to colonial-era crimes accessible to address the complex history between Algeria and France.
- The restitution of colonial-era assets is a contentious issue between Algeria and France, with progress being limited so far.
