The French parliament’s lower house has taken a significant step in acknowledging a dark chapter of its colonial past by approving a resolution condemning the tragic events of the 1961 Paris massacre of Algerians.
The resolution, passed on Thursday, denounces the brutal repression carried out by Paris police against peaceful demonstrators advocating for Algerian independence.
This acknowledgment comes after decades of concealment by French authorities, with President Emmanuel Macron publicly deeming the massacre “inexcusable” in 2021.
The text of the resolution underscores the culpability of police prefect Maurice Papon and calls for the official commemoration of the massacre.
While this resolution marks progress in recognizing the colonial crime, it also signifies a broader effort to come to terms with France’s historical legacy in Algeria.
The resolution, spearheaded by Greens lawmaker Sabrina Sebaihi and ruling Renaissance party MP Julie Delpech, received overwhelming support in the parliament, with 67 lawmakers voting in favor and 11 against.
Sebaihi emphasized that this vote serves as an initial step towards acknowledging the gravity of the massacre and recognizing it as a state crime.
