Algiers: Algerian institutions are officially abandoning French in favor of Arabic and English in their official and administrative documents and communications amid rising tensions with France.
According to Anadolu Agency, the country's football federation announced on Thursday that it has instructed all its affiliated associations to "Arabize" their activities, correspondences, and communications. The federation disclosed an official letter dated May 7, signed by its Secretary-General Nazir Poznad, mandating the "Arabization" of minutes and reports of the disciplinary committees, referee appointments, and appeals committee. The letter also called for the use of Arabic as soon as possible in all correspondence with various bodies and partners.
The statement highlighted that the "Arabization" process will be fully implemented by the upcoming 2025-2026 sports season. This initiative aligns with Algeria's decision to change the language of medical studies in universities from French to English, starting next academic year. Last month, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune supported this transition, describing the switch from French to English in medical education as the "right decision."
Diplomatic relations between Algeria and France remain tense, primarily due to unresolved issues from France's colonization of Algeria from 1830 to 1962. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau earlier remarked that Algeria's intention to replace the French language with English in schools is contributing to the ongoing crisis. Analysts believe that Algeria began the process of abandoning French in 2019.