Boualem Sansal Sentenced to Five Years in Algerian Prison

An Algerian court has sentenced renowned Franco-Algerian author Boualem Sansal to five years in prison under anti-terrorism legislation. This verdict, delivered on March 27, 2025, comes after Sansal's arrest at Algiers Airport in November 2024, where he faced charges related to undermining national unity and publishing content deemed a threat to national security.

Sansal's legal troubles began following his comments made to a far-right French media outlet, where he asserted that during the colonial period, France allocated excessive land to Algeria while providing insufficient territory to Morocco. This statement drew the ire of Algerian authorities, leading to his detention.

In the courtroom, Sansal refuted the allegations against him, arguing that he was merely expressing an opinion in support of free speech. Despite his defense, the court in Dar El Beida found him guilty, resulting in a prison sentence and a financial penalty amounting to approximately $3,700 (EUR3,431).

The French government has publicly condemned Sansal's imprisonment. President Emmanuel Macron expressed hope for a humanitarian resolution from Algerian authorities, advocating for Sansal's release, especially considering his health challenges, as he has been diagnosed with cancer and has required hospital care during his detention.

Following the sentencing, there has been significant backlash from literary circles and political figures in France. Both Macron and far-right leader Marine Le Pen have called for Sansal's immediate release. Additionally, literary organizations like PEN International and prominent figures such as French-Algerian novelist Kamel Daoud have voiced their support for him.

Relations between Algeria and France have been particularly tense since Macron recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara territory last year. This acknowledgment has further complicated the already strained diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Sansal is no stranger to controversy; his works have previously landed him on the list of banned authors in Algeria. Despite facing restrictions, he had managed to travel between Paris and Algiers without incident until his recent arrest. A frequent critic of the Algerian government, Sansal has openly discussed the role of Islam in Algerian society and the leadership of the country post-revolution.

In December 2024, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune referred to Sansal as an 'impostor' who lacks a clear understanding of his identity, calling his claims regarding Algeria's land allocation controversial. This comment was made in the context of rising tensions between the two nations.

As the legal and diplomatic discussions continue, many are calling for a reevaluation of the charges against Sansal, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression and the need for humane treatment of those facing health issues.