Shared struggles bind Bangladesh, Algeria

Algeria’s long fight for independence and Bangladesh’s Liberation War of 1971 share a common spirit of resistance, dignity and self-determination, the Algerian ambassador said at a remembrance event in Dhaka on Thursday.

The Algerian Embassy in Dhaka observed Algeria’s National Day of Remembrance, paying tribute to the victims of the May 8, 1945 massacres in Sétif, Guelma and Kherrata.

Speaking at the programme, the ambassador said the events of May 8, 1945 were not only a painful chapter in Algeria’s history, but also a turning point that strengthened the nation’s struggle against French colonial rule.

This year’s theme, “The Massacres of May 8, 1945: Dimensions, Visions, Impacts,” reflected the historical importance of the tragedy and its lasting influence on Algeria’s national identity, the envoy said.The ambassador recalled that Algerians had taken to the streets peacefully on May 8, 1945, at a time when much of the world was celebrating the end of World War II.

Many Algerians, who had supported France during the war, had expected political reforms, greater rights and recognition. Instead, their hopes were crushed when promised reforms were denied.

The envoy referred to the killing of young demonstrator Bouzid Saal, who was shot after refusing to lower the Algerian flag during the demonstration.

His death later became a symbol of Algeria’s demand for freedom and self-determination.According to the ambassador, the violence spread across Sétif, Guelma and Kherrata as French authorities and settler militias carried out a large-scale crackdown for weeks.

Villages were destroyed, civilians were killed and thousands lost their lives, with many historians estimating the death toll at around 45,000.Despite the tragedy, the envoy said the sacrifices of those who marched for freedom continue to inspire Algeria’s younger generations and remain a powerful symbol of resilience, patriotism and dignity.

The ambassador said the massacres helped give rise to organised resistance movements, including the Special Organization, or OS, which later contributed to the formation of the National Liberation Front, or FLN. The FLN launched Algeria’s independence revolution on November 1, 1954.The envoy also said the massacres remain a sensitive issue in Algeria-France relations.

While France described the events in 2005 as an “inexcusable tragedy,” Algeria continues to seek fuller recognition and accountability for what it considers crimes against humanity.

Highlighting Algeria’s independence on July 5, 1962, after 132 years of colonial rule, the ambassador said the country continues to draw strength from its history while working for progress and creating opportunities for its youth.

Drawing a connection with Bangladesh, the envoy said both Algeria and Bangladesh experienced oppression and fought for their right to self-determination.

He said the sacrifices of freedom fighters and martyrs in both countries should be remembered with respect.

The programme ended with slogans celebrating Algeria, Bangladesh and the friendship between the two nations.