French-Algerian Writer Sansal Jailed Five Years Algeria Undermining Unity

French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal has been sentenced to five years in prison by Algerian courts for undermining national unity, a ruling that was upheld on appeal and is now final as he has chosen not to appeal further. Sansal was arrested in November 2024 after giving an interview to a far-right magazine in which he contested Algeria's claim to territories historically linked to Morocco during the French colonial period, a statement Algeria views as a threat to its sovereignty. Despite calls from French officials, including Prime Minister François Bayrou and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, for his release or pardon, Sansal was excluded from the mass pardons granted by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on the eve of Algeria’s Independence Day. French authorities have faced criticism for their perceived inability to secure Sansal’s release, with commentators highlighting a lack of leverage in Algerian relations and alleging submission to Algerian demands. Supporters remain hopeful for a pardon, citing Sansal’s health concerns, but the Algerian government remains firm on the decision. This case illustrates ongoing tensions between France and Algeria, particularly regarding colonial-era territorial disputes and freedom of expression.