The iconic Parisian cultural center “Gaîté Lyrique” has become the center of controversy after migrants began occupying the space. The occupation started following an event designed to address migration issues and has since highlighted challenges in France’s handling of contemporary migration.
A Historic Venue Becomes a Political Stage
The “Gaîté Lyrique,” a renowned cultural hub with roots in the 18th century, has long been a beacon of innovation. Originally a theater for operettas, it transitioned to city ownership after World War II and adopted a politically engaged programming approach. The venue emphasizes transforming ideas into action, evident in its projects like Kabubu, which promotes community bonding through sports.
In December, the theater embraced migration as a central theme, inviting migrants to participate in a workshop titled “A Fresco of Migration.” Around 200 predominantly African men attended, engaging in discussions about rethinking refugee accommodation. By the end of the event, participants decided to stay, transforming the heated venue into their makeshift shelter.
Escalation and Financial Strain
Initially, the occupation met with tolerance from the theater’s management. However, as time passed, the strain on resources became evident. A spokesperson revealed that the prolonged occupation has cost the venue hundreds of thousands of euros, pushing it toward financial collapse. The city of Paris, which owns the theater, and the French government have offered no support.
The number of occupants has grown from 200 to 300, with many claiming to be minors. Under French law, minors are entitled to housing regardless of their asylum status. Critics, however, argue that most are adults falsely claiming minority status. Even the left-leaning city government has acknowledged this claim.
A Polarizing Debate
The situation has sparked heated political debate. Conservative leaders blame Socialist Mayor Anne Hidalgo for enabling the crisis. Meanwhile, critics accuse the “Gaîté Lyrique” of naivety for allowing the event to spark such consequences. Allegations point to an anti-colonial activist group from Belleville as the instigators of the occupation.
Despite the mounting tensions, theater director Juliette Donadieu remains empathetic. She acknowledges the legitimacy of the migrants’ demands for shelter but emphasizes that the “Gaîté Lyrique” is ill-equipped to function as a housing facility. The theater has been forced to close entirely, relocating or canceling all scheduled events.
No Resolution in Sight
The occupation is expected to continue, with no police intervention or government solutions in place. The issue has underscored France’s struggles with migration, now a deeply divisive topic in national politics. While the theater management endures the situation for now, the ongoing occupation signals broader systemic challenges in addressing the realities of modern migration.