The French Parliament calls for the immediate release of Boualem Sansal
The French National Assembly adopted on Tuesday May 06, 2025 a non-binding resolution demanding the immediate and unconditional release of Boualem Sansal, the 80-year-old Franco-Algerian writer sentenced in March to five years in prison by an Algerian court.
The resolution passed with 307 votes in favor, 28 against, and 4 abstentions. It also calls for any strengthened cooperation between France, the European Union, and Algeria to be made conditional on progress in human rights and rule of law.
The motion was introduced by MP Constance Le Grip (Renaissance) and supported by the government. Minister Delegate for Europe Benjamin Haddad described it as a reflection of France’s commitment to fundamental freedoms.
The text cites violations of Sansal’s right to a fair trial and his deteriorating health condition due to cancer. It also denounces the detention of other political prisoners in Algeria, including journalists, activists, and human rights defenders.
While non-binding, the resolution signals a clear political stance by the French legislature. Under the French Constitution, foreign policy remains under executive authority. The resolution does not alter legal obligations or compel government action but may inform diplomatic dialogue.
The far-left group La France Insoumise (LFI) voted against the resolution. LFI MPs called for Sansal’s release on principle but criticized the resolution’s tone and language, warning it could worsen diplomatic tensions and jeopardize efforts to secure his release. The Communist Party abstained. Socialists and Greens, despite reservations, voted in favor.
Sansal was arrested in Algeria in November 2024 and sentenced on March 27, 2025, for comments made to French outlet Frontières, where he questioned Algeria’s territorial integrity. He has appealed the verdict.
Abderrahmane Fares.
