Border Lines and Book Bans: The Boualem Sansal Controversy

Award-winning writer Boualem Sansal was sentenced to five years in Algerian prison over border comments deemed as a national security threat. This case has intensified tensions between Algeria and France, sparked outcry from civil rights groups, and highlighted Algeria’s controversial anti-terrorism laws used to stifle dissent.

An Algerian court sentenced celebrated French-Algerian author Boualem Sansal to five years in prison following remarks that challenged the legitimacy of Algeria's borders with Morocco. The judgment has exacerbated already tense relations between France and Algeria, prompting calls for his release from several international figures, including French President Emmanuel Macron.

The 76-year-old Sansal was convicted under anti-terrorism laws that human rights activists argue have been misused to silence government critics. He was charged with undermining national unity among other offenses and fined 500,000 Algerian dinar (USD 3,734). The case also reflects a broader crackdown on free speech in Algeria, especially after the removal of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika in 2019.

Sansal's remarks centered around the idea that the colonial-era redrawing of borders benefited Morocco, a contentious issue for the Algerian government. His sentencing, seen as politically motivated, has led to expressions of concern from European politicians and literary figures. It further illustrates the deteriorating diplomatic ties following France's policy shift on Western Sahara.

(With inputs from agencies.)