French Journalist Christophe Gleizes' Seven-Year Sentence in Algeria Sparks Unanimous Outcry and Diplomatic Concerns

On December 3, 2025, the Algerian Court of Appeal in Tizi Ouzou confirmed a seven-year prison sentence for French journalist Christophe Gleizes, charged with "apology of terrorism" and possession of propaganda materials. Gleizes, imprisoned since June 2024, was accused of entering Algeria on a tourist visa while conducting journalistic investigations into the Jeunesse Sportive de Kabylie (JSK) football club and alleged connections with the Movement for the Autonomy of Kabylie (MAK), designated a terrorist organization by Algerian authorities in 2021.

The verdict, described as "unfounded in law and fact" by Gleizes' French lawyer Emmanuel Daoud, lacks substantive evidence, according to his defense. Daoud lamented the lack of justification for such a severe ruling and indicated plans to pursue further legal avenues, including a cassation appeal or seeking a presidential pardon from Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Gleizes' family, particularly his brother Maxime, expressed profound shock and despair at the harsh sentence, emphasizing the difficulty of imagining their relative behind bars in Algeria. They remain committed to supporting him through legal challenges and have called for clemency.

The ruling has drawn sharp criticism from French authorities and institutions. The French Foreign Ministry expressed deep regret and advocated for Gleizes' release, while Reporters Without Borders condemned the decision as "aberrant," highlighting threats to press freedom. The French Football Federation also reiterated its "total support" for Gleizes, calling for his immediate release.

This judgment exacerbates diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria amidst ongoing efforts to normalize relations. Despite family presence at the hearing and growing advocacy, the court offered no leniency, underscoring the complex and politically charged nature of the case.