رئيسة معهد العالم العربي، آن كلير لوجوندر، زارت الجزائر يوم الأربعاء، 29 أفريل 2026، بدعوة من وزيرة الثقافة والفنون، مليكة بن دودة، في إطار اللقاءات الإفريقية-المتوسطية للفكر، تحت عنوان “أغسطين: تجلّ جزائري، إفريقي ومتوسطي”. الزيارة تأتي وسط استمرار الأزمة الدبلوماسية بين فرنسا والجزائر منذ عام 2024. لوجوندر أكدت للصحافة على دور المعهد في الحوار بين باريس والعالم العربي، مشيرة إلى أن الجزائر لطالما احتلت مكانة كبيرة في معهد العالم العربي، كعضو مؤسس وقع على الوثيقة التأسيسية للمعهد عام 1981.
لوجوندر صرحت أن المعهد يهدف إلى "فتح صفحة جديدة في العلاقات بين معهد العالم العربي والجزائر"، مؤكدة على وجود "الكثير من الأمور التي ينبغي القيام بها". وذكرت أن هدفها هو "العمل على أن تستعيد الدول العربية هذه المؤسسة بدرجة أكبر، من خلال مساعدتنا على إعداد البرامج معا، وإبراز المشاهد الفنية لكل واحد من هذه البلدان". وأضافت أن المعهد يسعى إلى "المساعدة على فهم هذه الثقافات العربية على الساحة الفرنسية وعلى الساحة الأوروبية"، معربة عن أملها في أن يسهم في "تقديم حلول حينما يتعذر أحيانا على الحوار داخل هيئات أخرى أن يحقق ذلك".
AWI's New Chapter in Algiers
Anne-Claire Legendre's visit to Algiers marked her first official trip abroad since assuming the presidency of the Arab World Institute (AWI) in Paris in mid-February 2026. Legendre emphasized the historical significance of Algeria to the institution, stating, "Algeria has always held a very large place in the Arab World Institute; it is a founding member, having signed the Institute's founding document in 1981, before it was built in 1983." The Arab World Institute itself was constructed in 1983. Legendre also remarked that "there has been a whole series and a long history of very intense relations between the two parties, noting and valuing Algerian culture." This visit by the President of the Arab World Institute shows the ongoing efforts to strengthen cultural ties and foster dialogue between France and the Arab world, particularly with Algeria, a key founding member of the institution.
During her visit, Legendre announced a new phase for the AWI's engagement with Algeria. She noted the institute's commitment to revitalizing its connections with Arab nations. "We are opening a new page in relations between the Arab World Institute and Algeria, one of the founding members: anticipated exhibitions, artistic residencies, cinema, and the fields are numerous and varied!" Legendre said. She met with Algerian cultural figures to establish a joint program, sharing a photo with Minister Ben Douda on "X" and expressing gratitude for her warm reception. Legendre described the meeting as "excellent," adding that "there is a lot to be done." The discussions with cultural actors aimed at devising collaborative initiatives that would showcase Algerian arts and heritage more prominently within the AWI's programming.
Legendre outlined her ambition for her current term, stating, "My goal in this upcoming new mandate is to work to ensure that Arab countries reclaim this institution to a greater extent, by helping us prepare programs together and highlight the artistic scenes of each of these countries." She also mentioned the institute's role in "helping to understand these Arab cultures on the French and European stage." The AWI welcomes approximately one million visitors annually, with about 70,000 French students visiting each year to explore contemporary Arab cultures. This significant annual footfall demonstrates the institute's reach and its role in educating a broad audience about the complexities and richness of Arab civilizations. Legendre suggested the institute could "also hope to contribute to providing solutions when dialogue within other bodies sometimes fails to achieve that." This statement implicitly acknowledges the broader diplomatic challenges that cultural institutions like the AWI may seek to ameliorate through their work.
Cultural Initiatives and Diplomatic Context
The Arab World Institute (AWI) has hosted various exhibitions showcasing the cultural heritage of the broader Arab region. Among these was an exhibition titled "Treasures of Gaza," which noted the archaeological history of the Palestinian territory. This particular exhibition provided a unique glimpse into the ancient past of Gaza, presenting artifacts and historical narratives that often go unseen. It aimed to inform and engage visitors with the deep historical roots of the region, extending beyond contemporary headlines.
The institute also organized a separate exhibition dedicated to Palestinian cultural history. This initiative aimed to present the depth and diversity of Palestinian heritage to a French and European audience, aligning with the AWI's stated mission of fostering cross-cultural understanding. Through displays of art, traditions, and historical documents, the exhibition sought to offer a full view of Palestinian identity and its evolution over centuries. These exhibitions show the institute's commitment to presenting diverse narratives and historical perspectives from the Arab world, providing platforms for cultural expression and education.
Currently, the AWI is hosting an exhibition focused on Lebanon. This ongoing display continues the institute's tradition of exploring the rich cultural landscapes of individual Arab nations, offering visitors insights into Lebanese art, history, and societal contributions. The exhibition delves into various facets of Lebanese culture, from ancient Phoenician influences to modern artistic expressions, reflecting the country's vibrant and complex identity. Such cultural programming by the AWI frequently serves as a platform for dialogue and appreciation of Arab cultures in France and across Europe, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of these societies. These initiatives are particularly significant in the context of the ongoing diplomatic crisis between France and Algeria, which has persisted since 2024, noting the potential of cultural diplomacy to maintain connections despite political tensions.
Bridging Divides Through Culture
The Arab World Institute (AWI) has positioned itself as a significant cultural conduit, aiming to foster understanding and dialogue between France and the Arab world. Its programming frequently notes the diverse cultural heritage of the broader Arab region, providing a platform for rich historical and artistic narratives. These initiatives align with the AWI's stated mission to present Arab cultures on the French and European stage, thereby contributing to cross-cultural appreciation. The institute's role extends beyond mere exhibition; it actively promotes educational programs and cultural exchanges that build bridges between different societies.
The institute's exhibitions have previously included "Treasures of Gaza," which focused on the archaeological history of the Palestinian territory. This exhibition was a testament to the AWI's commitment to showcasing lesser-known aspects of Arab history and heritage. A separate exhibition was also dedicated to Palestinian cultural history, showcasing the depth and diversity of this heritage. These displays exemplify the AWI's commitment to presenting varied perspectives and historical accounts from the Arab world to its audience, ensuring that complex narratives are given a voice. The AWI's commitment to these themes shows its belief in the power of culture to transcend political boundaries and foster empathy.
Currently, the AWI is hosting an exhibition dedicated to Lebanon. This ongoing presentation continues the institute's tradition of exploring the distinct cultural landscapes of individual Arab nations, offering visitors insights into Lebanese art, history, and societal contributions. Through these cultural offerings, the AWI frequently serves as a forum for dialogue and the appreciation of Arab cultures within France and across Europe. The institute aims to contribute to providing solutions where diplomatic dialogue between bodies might encounter difficulties, positioning itself as a vital non-political actor in international relations. The visit of Anne-Claire Legendre to Algeria, her first official foreign trip as president, shows the strategic importance the AWI places on strengthening its ties with founding members like Algeria, especially at a time when diplomatic relations between France and Algeria have been strained since 2024. This cultural engagement seeks to lay groundwork for renewed understanding and cooperation, demonstrating that cultural exchange can often pave the way for broader reconciliation and mutual respect.