l’Algérie demeurera attachée à sa revendication légitime de traiter le dossier de la Mémoire avec sérieux et responsabilité
Summary of Algeria’s Commitment to Memory Preservation
On the eve of the National Memory Day, coinciding with the commemoration of the May 8, 1945 massacres, Algeria’s Minister of Mujahideen and Rights Holders, Mr. Laïd Rebiga, emphasized the country’s steadfast commitment to addressing the issue of historical memory with seriousness and responsibility. He stated that Algeria will remain dedicated to its legitimate claims regarding memory, operating beyond momentary manipulations.
Rebiga pointed out that the 80th anniversary of the May 8, 1945 events occurs against a backdrop of significant national and international changes, including growing challenges related to historical justice and the rights of peoples to recognize their memory. He reiterated that Algeria’s approach would be grounded in truth, mutual respect, and fidelity to the sacrifices made by martyrs, or chouhada. These principles stem from the actions taken by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, aiming to preserve the memory of the martyrs and counter any efforts that might sever the connection between the Algerian people and their history, symbols, and values.
On May 8, 1945, Rebiga underscored its significance as a decisive moment in Algerian history, marking a referendum through which the Algerian people collectively chose their path towards freedom and self-determination. He noted the qualitative advancements and achievements made in preserving national memory as essential to national unity and identity.
Key milestones have included constitutionalizing the proclamation of November 1, 1954, and dedicating substantial parts of the country’s foundational law to the national movement’s history. The state is committed to respecting the symbols of the revolution and honoring the dignity of martyr families and former fighters.
Additionally, Rebiga revealed that President Tebboune has institutionalized National Memory Day to honor the victims of the May 8 massacres and the National Day of Algerian Muslim Scouts, commemorating the martyrdom of Mohamed Bouras, the movement’s founder. He also emphasized the importance of recognizing the victims of the tragic events of October 17, 1961, in Paris.
Among the significant achievements in preserving Algeria’s memory are the repatriation of the skulls of resistance figures held at the Musée de l’Homme in Paris. This reflects a broader effort to connect contemporary Algeria with its honorable past, establishing a strong foundation for building a new Algeria that values sacrifices and keeps its promises.
To ensure the history is transmitted to future generations, a dedicated memory channel was established in October 2021. This initiative aims to promote intergenerational communication and education about Algeria’s history.
Rebiga highlighted the creation of joint memory commissions and the establishment of "El-Djazairi," a company dedicated to producing a film on Emir Abdelkader. He also noted the importance of commemorating historical milestones like the 60th anniversary of independence and the 70th anniversary of the national liberation revolution, culminating in preparations for the 80th anniversary of the May 8 massacres.
In alignment with the President’s directives, the Mujahideen sector has implemented various digital platforms and applications to illustrate Algeria’s history from 1830 to 1962. Efforts also include digitizing museum work and living testimonies to enhance the promotion and preservation of Algeria’s historical narrative.
Overall, Rebiga asserted that these steps represent significant progress toward protecting and sharing Algeria’s history with future generations, ensuring that the sacrifices of the past continue to inform the present and future.
