An Inquiry into the Algerian Massacres By Youcef Bedjaoui, Abbas Aroua, Meziane Ait-Larbi, eds. (Geneva: Hoggar Books, 1999. 1,473 pages.)

Abstract

The book under review offers a monumental, exhaustive and judicious
account of"who are the agents behind the 'horrendous violence' that has followed
the consolidation of the military over incumbent authorities?" The
answer provided by the victors, those with the power to institute their choic es
and interpretations, is that the paroxysm of "Islamic fundamentalism" is
exacting grisly, gratuitous and ghastly violence on a society they have been
unable to conquer. On the contrary, scholars insist the beneficiaries of the
resource rich regions of Algeria, largely unscathed in the carnage, are indicative
of the faceless murderers behind the monstrosity. Moreover, the primary
importance of these resources to foreign states and corporations indicates
complicity. Amidst this confusing scenario, An lnqui!J' into the Algerian
Massacres provides a clear analysis of the beastly culprits.
Major international human rights organizations and outstanding journalists
have not found the "Islamic fundamentalist" argument compelling
and continue to raise the same question: "Who is behind these grisly atrocities?"
The evidence unearthed strongly suggests that the unseen hands,
responsible for the bloodbath, belong to the Algerian army. In addition,
striking corroboration has come from defectors and victims which incriminates
the Algerian military apparatus and such foreign co-conspirators as
the French government. This allegation is firmly supported by the environs
of the savagery, taking place in close proximity to military and police
installations, yet raging for long periods with no interference.
Further disturbing, this charge against the Algerian authorities becomes
increasingly credible against the backdrop of the hideous record of rape, torture
and mutilation perpetrated by Algerian mjlitary authorities, well documented
by independent human rights monitors and reputable reporters.
Noam Chomsky, in his insightful foreword to the book, collaborates this ...