As every year, the Embassy commemorated Algeria’s Independence and Youth Day on July 5th
Marking the 63rd anniversary, special emphasis was placed, this year 2025, on highlighting culture and history, with the aim of preserving national identity, safeguarding collective memory, and promoting the humanistic values awakened by Algeria struggle for independence.
As part of the celebrations, the Embassy in presence of H.E Ambassador Salima Abdelhak, participated in the Antiques and Art Festival at Lange Voorhout in The Hague. From the early hours of July 5th, the Algerian pavilion, decorated with national flags, showcased traditional crafts, fine porcelain, jewellery, and Algerian outfits, reflecting the richness of Algeria’s cultural heritage.
The pavilion attracted numerous visitors, including members of the Algerian community, Dutch nationals, and representatives of the diplomatic corps. A memorable highlight was a live saxophone performance of the Algerian national anthem, evoking emotion and pride.
The exhibition lasted two days, during which the Algerian exhibitors greatly appreciated the warmth, curiosity, and easy-going spirit of the Dutch visitors, who came in large numbers despite the rain of the second day.
On the evening of July 5, Ambassador Salima Abdelhak participated in a commemorative event at the Eye Film Museum in Amsterdam, organized by the Africadelic Foundation. The event featured a documentary screening on Frantz Fanon and was held in the presence of Dr. Glenn Helberg, a Dutch psychiatrist deeply inspired by Fanon’s work. It marked both the centenary of Fanon’s birth and the 63rd anniversary of Algeria’s independence.
During her opening remarks, she paid a powerful tribute to Algeria’s struggle for independence, highlighting the pain and honour through which freedom was achieved, thanks to the determination and sacrifice of the Algerian people and the solidarity of international supporters.
She emphasized the historic impact of the liberation movement, not only within Algeria but across Africa, where it inspired other liberation movements. She also recalled that Algeria’s resistance was a model both militarily and diplomatically, noting that its revolutionary diplomacy helped gather global solidarity and contributed to the adoption of UN Resolution 1514, affirming the right to self-determination.
Ambassador Salima Abdelhak highlighted Frantz Fanon’s lasting legacy and his deep ties to Algeria, honouring him as a key supporter of its independence and a humanist thinker whose ideas remain highly relevant in today world that needs more than ever justice, humanity and dignity.
Dr. Glenn Helberg followed with a reflection on Fanon’s intellectual and psychological contributions, emphasizing the enduring impact of his work in addressing the trauma of colonialism and discrimination and advancing the global struggle for equality and decolonization.
