Diplomatic Correspondent: The Embassy of Algeria in Dhaka will commemorate the 65th anniversary of the October 17, 1961 massacres, a tragic chapter in Algerian history that remains a symbol of the country`s struggle for independence, freedom and dignity.

The commemoration will be held at the embassy premises at House 6, Road 13, Baridhara Diplomatic Zone, Dhaka, at 10:00 am on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

The embassy has invited journalists and media representatives to attend the programme marking the anniversary of the killings, which took place in Paris during Algeria`s struggle to end French colonial rule. October 17 has been officially observed as National Emigration Day in Algeria since 2021.

The 1961 massacres remain a significant part of Algeria`s collective memory. On October 17 that year, Algerians living in Paris staged a peaceful demonstration against a discriminatory curfew imposed on Algerians by French authorities amid the war of independence. The protest was met with severe police repression, resulting in deaths, injuries and mass arrests.

The precise death toll remains disputed, but the incident is widely recognised as one of the darkest episodes in the history of France`s colonial conflict with Algeria. The events have continued to shape discussions on colonialism, human rights, historical accountability and the right to peaceful protest.

Algeria gained independence from France in 1962 after a prolonged and bloody war that began in 1954. The October 17 tragedy remains a reminder of the human cost of that struggle and the sacrifices made by Algerians in pursuit of national liberation.

By observing National Emigration Day, Algeria also recognises the experiences and contributions of its citizens living abroad and honours the historical role of Algerian communities overseas in the country`s independence movement.

The Dhaka commemoration is expected to provide an opportunity to remember the victims and reflect on the historical significance of the events, while highlighting the enduring importance of freedom, justice and human dignity.

The embassy has expressed its hope that invited media representatives will participate in the programme along with their respective teams.