Algeria’s relationship with France has long been a complex and tumultuous one, rooted in a painful history of colonisation, resistance, and sacrifice. However, recent actions and attitudes from the French government and media have reignited a growing sentiment among Algerians: the time has come to redefine our relationship with France entirely. This is not merely a question of diplomacy or economics—it is a matter of honour, independence, and justice for the blood of our martyrs.
A History of Betrayal and Atrocities
Algeria’s role in the liberation of France during World War II is often overlooked or underappreciated in French historical narratives. Thousands of Algerians fought valiantly against Nazi Germany, with promises from France that Algeria would be granted its independence in return. Instead, France responded with a brutal colonial regime that committed heinous atrocities, including the massacre of civilians, the burning of over 3,000 villages, and the use of illegal weapons. The horrors were further compounded by the testing of atomic bombs in the Saharan desert, leaving long-lasting scars on Algerian land and people.
Despite these atrocities, Algerians have contributed immensely to France’s economy and society. Algerian labourers helped rebuild France after the war, and to this day, Algerian doctors, engineers, and intellectuals—educated at great expense by Algeria—continue to bolster French institutions. Yet, instead of gratitude, Algeria is met with criticism and condescension from French politicians and media, including President Macron himself.
The Ungratefulness of the French
France’s failure to acknowledge its debt to Algeria is not just an affront to history but a continued exploitation of Algerian resources and talent. French companies operate freely in Algeria, profiting from contracts and opportunities while simultaneously criticising our nation. This hypocrisy is intolerable to a people who have paid such a high price for their independence and continue to make sacrifices for their sovereignty.
A Matter of Honour
The Algerian people are calling for decisive action from their government. It is time to end all diplomatic, economic, and political ties with France until France issues a formal apology for the atrocities committed during its colonial rule. This includes halting gas exports, cancelling contracts with French companies, and cutting off all forms of cooperation. The memory of our martyrs demands nothing less. Algeria’s independence was hard-won, and it must now be defended not just from physical colonisation but from economic and cultural exploitation.
A Path Forward
This is not an act of isolationism but a necessary assertion of our sovereignty. Algeria must look beyond France, forging partnerships with nations that respect our history, our people, and our potential. Recent diplomatic overtures, such as inviting India’s president and strengthening ties with other nations, signal a new era of diversified partnerships that align with Algeria’s interests and values.
The relationship between Algeria and France has reached a breaking point. Algerians have endured enough indignities and exploitation. It is time for our government to act decisively and for our people to stand united. Cutting ties with France is not merely an economic or diplomatic decision; it is a declaration of our dignity, our independence, and our future as a truly sovereign nation. Let the blood of our martyrs not be wasted, and let the world know that Algeria is a nation that honours its past while forging a proud and independent future.
