Algeria book fair opens without winner of top French language literary prize

As Algeria’s largest book fair opens Wednesday, notable French Algerian author Kamel Daoud is absent. Recently awarded France’s prestigious Prix Goncourt, Daoud was not invited to the Algiers International Book Fair. His French publisher Gallimard, a frequent participant, was also excluded. This absence highlights ongoing restrictions on freedom of expression in Algeria, with several prominent authors and publishers left out. Daoud’s works often stir debate in both France, where he resides, and Algeria, his birthplace.