Benjamin Stora: Far-right rise in France could hinder return of looted Algerian assets

While attending the Algiers International Book Fair, French historian Benjamin Stora criticized certain French media outlets for scapegoating Algeria to address France's own domestic issues. He argued that this rhetoric reflects an enduring colonial mindset rooted in inequality. Discussing historical memory, Stora noted that progress remains limited regarding the legacy of nuclear tests in the Sahara, the identification of missing persons, and access to archives. The historian reiterated his support for the return of looted artifacts, specifically the Baba Merzoug cannon and items belonging to Emir Abdelkader. He warned, however, that should the far-right come to power in France, the legislative process required to facilitate the return of these colonial-era assets to Algeria and other African countries would likely be stalled.