Algeria Demands France Decontaminate Nuclear Test Sites in Sahara

A new Algerian law calls for France to address radioactive waste from nuclear tests conducted during and after the colonial period.

Algeria has passed legislation requiring France to decontaminate areas affected by nuclear tests conducted between 1960 and 1966 in the Sahara Desert.
The Algerian government insists France take responsibility for the environmental and health impacts of 17 nuclear tests, including revealing the locations of buried radioactive waste.
French nuclear tests in Algeria began in 1960 during the colonial period and continued after Algerian independence under agreements signed in the 1962 Évian Accords.
Algeria's Environment Minister Nadjiba Djilali has emphasized the need for historical and environmental justice, rejecting financial compensation in favor of cleanup efforts.
Critics note that French efforts to address the legacy of these tests have been limited, with many victims facing significant barriers to receiving compensation under French law.