This Friday, July 5, 2024, Algeria commemorates the 62nd anniversary of its independence, a date which marks the end of 132 years of French colonization. This historic day recalls the path traveled since the landing of French forces on the coast of Sidi Fredj on June 14, 1830, until the liberation of the country in 1962, after a bloody war of liberation that lasted almost eight years.
The independence of Algeria, proclaimed on July 5, 1962, was the culmination of a process initiated by the Evian Accords signed on March 18, 1962, followed by a ceasefire the next day. In less than four months, Algeria has taken crucial steps towards its sovereignty. A provisional executive was set up in April 1962 in Rocher Noir (today Boumerdès), followed by the self-determination referendum on July 1, 1962, where 99.7% of voters voted in favor of independence. This rapid transition demonstrates the determination of the Algerian people to take control of their destiny.
These first days of independent Algeria were marked by a mixture of euphoria and challenges, as the country began its reconstruction and asserted its new identity on the international stage. The streets of Algiers and other major cities were filled with jubilant demonstrators, waving the green, white, and red national flag, the symbol of the new nation.
Abdelmadjid Tebboune recalls the sacrifices made
In his commemorative speech, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune underlined the importance of these historic events, recalling that “the history of Algeria is punctuated by key and memorable stages whose evocation inspires us with pride and grandeur”. He insisted on the unique character of the Algerian struggle against colonialism, evoking “the figure of one and a half million Chouhadas” to illustrate the scale of the sacrifices made. The president also called for preserving this heritage and drawing inspiration from it to meet contemporary challenges.
The celebration of this anniversary is not limited to the capital, but extends to the entire national territory, reflecting the unity of the country. In the southern wilayas, traditionally less developed, local authorities marked the occasion with the inauguration of numerous infrastructures and the launch of development projects. In Ouargla, Ghardaïa, Touggourt, Tindouf, and other towns, schools, housing, water, and electricity networks have been put into service, demonstrating the State’s desire to improve the living environment. citizens and reduce regional disparities.
A day of pride for Salah Goudjil
The President of the Council of the Nation, Salah Goudjil, himself a veteran of the liberation war, described this day as “a source of pride and unity for the nation”. He underlined the importance of transmitting to younger generations the values of sacrifice and patriotism which animated the struggle for independence. For his part, the president of the National People’s Assembly, Brahim Boughali, stressed that the holiday was celebrated “in favor of security, stability, development and prosperity”, highlighting the progress made by Algeria since its independence.
This commemoration takes place in a context where Algeria is consolidating its position on the international scene. President Tebboune spoke of the country’s recent successes, particularly in terms of foreign policy, affirming that “Algeria has triumphed with its audible voice and its preserved place in the concert of nations”. He notably recalled Algeria’s mediating role in several regional conflicts and its commitment to just causes, such as the Palestinian question.
The future youth of the country
While celebrating the achievements of independence, the Algerian authorities are emphasizing the future, in particular on the country’s youth who represent more than 50% of the population. Initiatives aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation among young people were announced, symbolizing Algeria’s desire to look to the future while remaining anchored in its historical values. The government has notably launched an ambitious program of professional training and support for start-ups, aimed at reducing youth unemployment and diversifying the economy which is still largely dependent on hydrocarbons.
This 62nd anniversary of Algerian independence is a moment of reflection, of national pride, but also a projection towards the future. It reflects the country’s determination to honor its past while meeting the present challenges and preparing a promising future for its citizens.
Algeria, strong in its history and achievements, continues to chart its path toward progress and development, faithful to the ideals its heroes fought for more than six decades ago. As the country celebrates its independence, it also reaffirms its commitment to social justice, sustainable development, and international solidarity, values that guided its struggle for freedom and continue inspiring its journey as a sovereign nation.
