French-Algerian Author Boualem Sansal Detained in Algeria, Faces Life Sentence

The 75-year-old writer, known for his critiques of Islamism and authoritarianism, is accused of acts against state security under Algeria's anti-terrorism law.

Boualem Sansal, a prominent Franco-Algerian author, was arrested on November 16 at Algiers airport and is currently detained in a penitentiary unit of an Algerian hospital.
He faces charges under Article 87 bis of Algeria's penal code, which covers acts of terrorism and state security violations, and risks life imprisonment if convicted.
Sansal's arrest has drawn widespread condemnation from international politicians, writers, and activists, with the European Parliament calling for his immediate release.
The French government, including President Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, has labeled the detention 'inacceptable' and pledged diplomatic efforts for his freedom.
The case has further strained already tense Franco-Algerian relations, with critics accusing the Algerian regime of suppressing free expression and using the arrest as a political tool.