Skip to main content

Video: The stigma of the Algerian Muslims who fought for France

FRANCE 24

More than 50 years have passed since the end of the brutal Algerian War of Independence, a colonial struggle that saw thousands of Muslims who fought for their French colonial masters forced to flee the country.

Advertising

Known as Harkis, these Algerians were considered traitors by their fellow countrymen. When France pulled out of the North African country in 1962, they were forced to flee to avoid retribution. 

An estimated 100,000 Harkis and their families who stayed behind in Algeria were killed in the years after the French withdrawal.

The French government is trying to improve relations with Algeria. But the fate of thousands of surviving Harkis – and their children who continue to live under the stigma of their parents' disgrace – remains a contentious and divisive issue.

Daily newsletterReceive essential international news every morning

Take international news everywhere with you! Download the France 24 app

Share :
Page not found

The content you requested does not exist or is not available anymore.