The deportation attempts of some Algeria citizens who are in France’s territories have recently strained mutual relations. In Mulhouse city of France, in January 2025, the attack that caused the death of one person was executed by an Algerian who stays in the country despite the deportation decision had increased the tension. The French authorities imposed Algeria with underline the refusal of the attacker who was asked several times to abandon the country. Paris administration allowed for six weeks while the government of Algeria did not accept the deportation request in March. Algeria refusing this ultimatum suspended the relations between the two countries. The crisis regarding to return of refugees faced off security concerns and sovereignty sensitivity.
The questioning of the 1968 Migration Agreement is at the heart of the recent diplomatic tension. This agreement, signed after Algeria’s independence, gives Algerian citizens privileged immigrant status in France. However, France threatened to review the agreement, arguing that Algeria had not fulfilled its obligations under the agreement. Prime Minister François Bayrou has stated that it is imperative to question special immigration privileges. The Algerian administration, on the other hand, announced that it would respond in accordance with reciprocity and pointed out the importance of preserving this agreement. The fact that this agreement, which was once a symbol of historical reconciliation, has turned into a cause of political crisis today is a clear indication of the changing balances in relations.
The arrest of Algerian-French writer Boualem Sansal in November 2024 is another development that deepens the crisis. The arrest of Sansal, who is known for his criticism of the regime, and his hunger strike caused a harsh reaction from France. French President Emmanuel Macron described the detention as arbitrary and demanded that Algeria take immediate action. While the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs threatened sanctions, the European Parliament also adopted a resolution condemning the situation. The Algerian Parliament, on the other hand, rejected these interventions as interference in internal affairs. The Sansal issue has become a symbol of the clash of values.
The French media also plays a critical role in the escalation of tensions. Criticism of Algeria is frequently reported in the French media; Democracy deficit and human rights violations are frequently brought to the agenda. While newspapers such as Le Figaro share messages in favor of de-escalation, the general attitude in the media remains critical of Algeria. The harsh publications of the French press cause serious reactions in Algeria and strain diplomatic channels. The media, which is at the center of the perception war between the two countries, has a direct impact on the increase in tension in relations.
The rise of the far right in France is putting direct pressure on relations with Algeria. The populist rhetoric of right-wing politics strengthens the anti-immigration stance and forces the government to take steps in this direction. Public opinion polls show that the negative attitude towards Algeria in French society is strengthening and the pressure on the government is increasing. This situation is considered as an example of the direct impact of populist approaches in domestic politics on foreign policy. The rise of right-wing rhetoric further complicates France’s relations with Algeria.
Algeria’s domestic political dynamics also directly shape its foreign policy. The Algerian administration, which is experiencing economic difficulties and social unrest, is trying to alleviate domestic political problems by drawing attention to external threats. Tensions with France are quite functional for the government in this context; The mobilization of nationalist sentiments increases domestic support. The direct connection between domestic politics and foreign policy brings with it the fact that the Algerian administration adopts a harsh attitude in its relations with France. This situation makes it even more difficult to find a solution to the crisis.
The recent decline in France’s influence in Africa has led it to adopt a tougher stance in its policies towards Algeria. France, which has suffered strategic losses in its relations with African countries, is trying to consolidate its presence in the region by showing determination about Algeria. This policy is perceived by the Algerian administration as a threat to regional sovereignty. Thus, regional power dynamics play a critical role in increasing tension in France-Algeria relations. Regional rivalry and power struggle make diplomatic conflicts inevitable.
The decline in economic relations between France and Algeria poses significant costs for both countries. Especially considering France’s investments in Algeria and Algeria’s need for French technology and know-how, this economic rupture weakens both sides. The weakening of trade relations increases the risk that political tension will become permanent by reflecting on the economic field. These economic dynamics have the potential to reshape relations between the two countries and may accelerate the search for a diplomatic solution.
As a result, the tension in Franco-Algerian relations lies at the root of migration policies, human rights issues and economic interests. The historical mistrust between the parties and the current political calculations make it easier for every dispute to turn into a serious crisis. This multi-layered tension is fueled by mutual accusations and showdowns. For a lasting solution, both countries need to create a sincere dialogue environment that takes into account historical sensitivities and mutual interests.
The situation in the relations between France and Algeria is also noteworthy from the point of view of theories of international relations. The realist perspective shows that states adopt harsh attitudes to protect their interests. However, liberal approaches emphasize that economic and social ties are an important tool in overcoming crises and that cooperation is essential for the normalization of relations. The current crisis between the two countries is important in terms of testing the applicability of these theories.
