Relations between France and Algeria are entering a new period of tension. On Sunday, French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin proposed a bold measure: the termination of the 2013 Franco-Algerian intergovernmental agreement, which allows certain Algerians with official or diplomatic passports to enter France without a visa.
A Strategic Move Targeting Algerian Elites
Speaking on the LCI news channel, Gérald Darmanin explained that the agreement enables thousands of Algerian diplomatic passport holders to travel freely to France without a visa. The minister argued that this “privilege” should be revoked, describing the decision as “smarter and more effective” for applying pressure on Algerian leaders. However, he clarified that this retaliatory measure would not affect Franco-Algerian citizens with cultural or familial ties to France.
A Context of Growing Tensions
Darmanin’s proposal comes amid a recent deterioration in Franco-Algerian relations. The controversial expulsion of Algerian influencer “Doualemn” serves as a prime example. The 59-year-old was arrested in Montpellier following a contentious TikTok video. After being deported to Algeria last Thursday, he was sent back to France on the same day, prolonging his detention to 26 days.
This incident has sparked heated reactions from both governments. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau accused Algeria of attempting to “humiliate” France. In response, Algeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the expulsion as “arbitrary and abusive,” rejecting the French allegations.
A Call for Mutual Respect
Darmanin emphasized that bilateral relations must be based on mutual respect. “Algeria must respect France, just as France must respect Algeria,” he stated, urging efforts to resolve the current tensions.
Bilateral Agreements Under Scrutiny
In addition to the 2013 agreement, former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has called for a review of the 1968 Franco-Algerian agreement, which grants Algerians special status regarding travel, residency, and employment in France. Darmanin supported this idea, arguing that the agreement, already revised four times, is “obsolete” and should be reconsidered.
Another Point of Contention: Boualem Sansal
Relations are further strained by the arrest in Algiers of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, 75, who is in poor health. Darmanin underscored the need for his immediate release, stating, “Algeria would honor itself by releasing him quickly.”
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