✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | May 28, 2024 — In a significant step towards addressing historical grievances, Algeria has officially presented a list of historical artifacts and symbols from the 19th century currently held in various French institutions, seeking their restitution. This initiative, though symbolic, holds immense historical value for Algeria, as highlighted in a communiqué issued by the Algerian-French Joint Commission on History and Memory during its 5th meeting.
Algerian Proposal and French Response
The communiqué details Algeria’s invitation for France to address concerns regarding the restitution of cultural, archival, and other assets. The French side has agreed to convey this list to President Emmanuel Macron, aiming for the swift return of artifacts that can be repatriated to their country of origin.
The 5th meeting of the Algerian-French Joint Commission on History and Memory took place on May 22-23 at the National Archives headquarters in Algiers. The commission emphasized the need for tangible actions to encompass all aspects of the colonial period’s history. The communiqué expressed the joint desire that the handling of this historical dossier reflects the aspirations of both Algerian and French people.
The communiqué stresses the importance of continuing negotiations within the framework of the Algerian-French joint discussion group on archival issues. It reiterated Algeria’s call for France to address its restitution concerns comprehensively. The commission agreed to pursue and complete the chronological documentation of military, political, economic, social, cultural, and human dimensions of the 19th century.
Cultural Cooperation and Future Plans
The commission applauded ongoing cooperation in restoration, digitization, and exchange of experiences and scientific knowledge. Initiatives include the digitization of civil and cemetery records, creating a digital portal, and organizing scientific meetings. The French side proposed a preliminary program for a scientific meeting focused on archives for the 2024-2025 academic year, highlighting the potential benefits of institutionalized collaborations for the youth of both nations.
Future Steps and Historical Commitment
The commission expressed its hope to realize the objectives of the Algiers Declaration (August 2022) signed by Presidents Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Emmanuel Macron. The implementation of concrete actions will demonstrate a strong commitment to acknowledging all dimensions of colonial history, thereby fostering a forward-looking relationship between the two countries.
The commission members agreed to hold their next meeting in France in early July 2024. The Algerian and French coordinators, Mohamed Lahcen Zeghidi and Benjamin Stora, respectively, will continue to lead these collaborative efforts.
The submission of this list marks a crucial step in the historical dialogue between Algeria and France. The joint commission’s work aims to bridge historical gaps and foster a shared understanding of the colonial past, ultimately contributing to the reconciliation and strengthening of bilateral relations.
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