2024 Mayotte crisis
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In early 2024, a political and economic crisis emerged in the French overseas department of Mayotte.
Mayotte is the poorest overseas department in France, although it remains more economically developed than neighbouring Madagascar and the Comoros. The local economy relies heavily on the labour of economic migrants, many of whom are undocumented.[1][2]
In 2018, civil unrest was triggered by protests against the economic crisis and the presence of undocumented immigrants from the Comoros Islands. The protests involved roadblocks, a general strike, and demonstrations, with residents expressing concerns over pressure on healthcare, housing, and education services due to the growing migrant population.[3]
In 2021, 54 Members of Parliament warned of an "impending social chaos" resulting from severe poverty and irregular immigration.[4] In early 2023, the French government initiated efforts to demolish approximately 1,000 bangas—makeshift homes located in slums that housed around 40% of the island's population.[1]
By December 2023, emergency services announced they would no longer operate at night due to safety concerns.[5] Protests were also held over water shortages caused by ongoing drought conditions.[6] These issues were further exacerbated by long-standing underinvestment in infrastructure and public services in Mayotte.[7]
In response to the deteriorating situation, the French government launched Operation Wuambushu to address illegal immigration and improve security in the Indian Ocean region.[8][9]