rance has passed a framework law on the restitution of cultural property, but it excludes many key Algerian artifacts taken during the colonial era, according to parliamentary proceedings on April 13. The legislation outlines a regulated process for returning certain items but leaves out highly symbolic objects sought by Algeria.
The bill, approved by the French National Assembly, is expected to be enacted after review by a joint parliamentary committee. It aims to facilitate the return of cultural property to former colonies, yet its scope remains limited. The law introduces strict conditions for removing items from France’s public collections, particularly those protected by the principle of inalienability, which restricts their transfer or restitution.
However, the framework explicitly excludes military seizures and objects held by institutions with special legal status. This means that historically significant items linked to Algeria’s colonial past—such as the saber of Emir Abdelkader and the Baba Merzoug cannon—are not eligible for return under the current provisions. French daily Le Monde described the measure as “a step forward, certainly, but with limited implications for Algeria,” reflecting concerns over its narrow application.
The issue of restitution has been a central topic in bilateral relations, especially following the 2021 report by historian Benjamin Stora, commissioned by Emmanuel Macron. The report recommended returning symbolic items to help address historical grievances stemming from France’s colonization of Algeria. The matter has also been discussed within a joint commission of historians launched in 2023 by Macron and Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
One of the key limitations concerns items originating from private donations or bequests. For example, artifacts taken during the 1843 capture of Emir Abdelkader’s Smala—later bequeathed to the Institut de France—can only be returned with the consent of donors or their heirs. Similarly, institutions such as the Condé Museum in Chantilly are not subject to restitution rules due to their distinct legal frameworks, despite holding numerous items tied to Algerian heritage.
Military collections are also excluded on the basis that war booty is considered legally appropriated by the state. This affects holdings such as cannons and artillery pieces seized during the 19th-century French conquest, many of which remain in institutions like the Army Museum.
Some items, however, could still be eligible for restitution under the new law. These include personal belongings of Emir Abdelkader—such as manuscripts, garments, and ceremonial objects—as well as historical artifacts like the key to the city of Laghouat. In early March, several weapons linked to the Emir were displayed in Stains near Paris, with indications from Stora that they may soon be returned to Algeria.
The law marks incremental progress in addressing restitution claims but highlights the ongoing gap between French legal frameworks and Algeria’s broader demands for the return of historically significant cultural property.
Sami B. is the founder and editor of Algeria News Gate, an independent English-language platform covering Algeria’s political, economic, and business developments. Based in Europe, he reports on official announcements, economic trends, and international relations involving Algeria.