Benjamin Stora: Official apologies are insufficient for colonial memory resolution

French historian Benjamin Stora argues that addressing colonial memory between Algeria and France requires a long-term educational and historical commitment, stating that formal apologies alone are not enough. Speaking at the Algiers International Book Fair, Stora noted that the deep legacy of 132 years of colonial rule remains a difficult subject for French society. While acknowledging progress from his 2021 report regarding historical figures and archives, he pointed out that issues such as missing persons, nuclear testing archives, and the restitution of historical items like the Baba Merzoug cannon remain unresolved. Stora warned of right-wing political pressure in France and advocated for legislation that would facilitate the return of stolen cultural property to Algeria and other African nations.