Diplomatic Setback for France-Algeria Relations as Christophe Gleizes’ Sentencing Undermines Recent Thaw

The sentencing of French journalist Christophe Gleizes to seven years in prison in Algeria on charges of "apology of terrorism" has reignited a diplomatic strain between France and Algeria, reversing recent positive momentum in their relations. The December 3 court ruling by the Tizi Ouzou court reaffirmed an earlier verdict from June 29, prompting shock and dismay among French officials who had hoped for improvement.

Just weeks prior, Algeria had shown signs of reconciliation with France after President Abdelmadjid Tebboune granted clemency to writer Boualem Sansal on November 12 following nearly a year of detention, a move facilitated by German mediation. This gesture, along with the release of Sansal and the issuing of visas to Gleizes’ family and lawyer, had raised French optimism about easing a diplomatic crisis that began after President Emmanuel Macron recognized Moroccan claims over Western Sahara in July 2024.

However, the confirmation of Gleizes' sentence disrupted this fragile progress. His family organized a solidarity march during the Avignon Festival on the same day as the appeal ruling, spotlighting continuing tensions. Meanwhile, Sansal remains in Berlin at the French embassy, having postponed his return to Paris after recently leaving a military hospital.

The Gleizes case encapsulates the complexities and ongoing volatility of Franco-Algerian relations, with respected Algerian figures like Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco previously involved in diplomatic efforts. The situation highlights that despite earlier hopeful signals, deep political divides and judicial actions in Algeria continue to challenge France's diplomatic outreach.