Writers Rally in Paris for Detained Algerian Novelist Boualem Sansal
Prominent literary figures gathered at the Institut du Monde Arabe to demand the release of the 80-year-old writer, imprisoned in Algeria since November for alleged state security offenses.
- Boualem Sansal, a Franco-Algerian author, has been detained in Algeria since November 16, accused of 'endangering state security' under Article 87 bis of the Algerian Penal Code.
- The 80-year-old writer, who is battling cancer, is being held in a prison hospital in Algiers, with limited access to legal representation due to diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria.
- A solidarity event at the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris on February 18 featured readings of Sansal’s work and calls for his release, attended by notable writers, intellectuals, and cultural figures from across the political spectrum.
- Participants emphasized the apolitical nature of the event, focusing on defending freedom of expression and opposing the imprisonment of writers for their ideas.
- Supporters have launched global advocacy efforts, including a European Parliament resolution, a fundraising campaign, and public appeals to French President Emmanuel Macron to intervene diplomatically.
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