France /Algeria: In France, more and more political voices are calling for the denunciation of the 1968 agreements and a firmer line against the junta
Franco-Algerian relations face escalating tensions due to accusations of destabilization, particularly from Algeria against France's DGSE. Recent events, such as France's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty and controversial statements about the 1968 agreements, have intensified conflicts. Political motivations in both countries further complicate the situation, affecting future cooperation.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
Franco-Algerian relations are experiencing a new period of turbulence, marked by mutual accusations and diplomatic escalation. This deterioration is taking place in an already tense context, exacerbated by regional geopolitical issues and domestic political considerations in both countries.
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Algerian Accusations of Destabilization
The Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently summoned the French Ambassador to Algiers, Stéphane Romatet, to issue a "severe warning". Algerian authorities accuse France, particularly the Directorate General for External Security (DGSE), of conducting "aggressive operations and maneuvers" aimed at destabilizing Algeria.
These accusations follow the broadcast of a documentary on Algerian national television, claiming that a "Machiavellian plan" by the DGSE had been foiled by Algerian security services. Algeria also reproaches France for organizing meetings in its diplomatic representations with individuals hostile to Algerian institutions.
Context of Increasing Tensions
This new diplomatic crisis is set against a backdrop of already strained relations, marked by several recent events:
- France's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in July 2024, which led to the recall of the Algerian ambassador to France.
- The arrest and detention of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal in Algeria, accused of "undermining territorial integrity".
- Controversial statements by French political officials regarding the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreements.
Debate in France on the 1968 Agreements
In France, the debate on the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreements, which govern the residence and work of Algerian immigrants, is intensifying. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau recently spoke in favor of denouncing these agreements, describing them as "very favorable to Algeria and very unfavorable to France".
This position reflects a growing trend within the French political class to adopt a firmer line towards Algeria. Some consider that these agreements grant "exorbitant rights" to Algerians and are no longer justified in the current context.
Political Instrumentalization of Bilateral Relations
According to Adlene Mohammedi, a researcher specializing in Franco-Algerian relations, tensions between the two countries are often instrumentalized for domestic political purposes. In France, this instrumentalization would aim to appeal to certain political currents, particularly on the right and far-right. In Algeria, it would allow for flattering a part of public opinion by systematically designating France as responsible for the country's difficulties.
Perspectives
The deterioration of Franco-Algerian relations raises concerns about the future of bilateral cooperation in various fields. Both countries face the challenge of managing their differences while preserving their common interests, particularly in economic and security matters.
Resolving this diplomatic crisis will likely require efforts on both sides to ease tensions and restore constructive dialogue, while avoiding excessive instrumentalization of bilateral relations for domestic political purposes.
