France approves law to compensate the “Children of La Réunion”

Paris – 17.06.2026: The French Parliament has passed a law that provides compensation for the “Children of La Réunion,” who between 1962 and 1984 were relocated from the island to various French regions. These children were brought to mainland France as part of an organized state relocation policy. The goal was to populate rural areas and provide labor. However, many of these children were separated from their families and suffered abuse as well as cultural alienation.

The legislative initiative was promoted by Deputy Karine Lebon (GDR) and seeks to recognize the responsibility of the state and offer financial compensation to the affected individuals. In addition, a commission for the memory of the former relocated minors from La Réunion will be established to develop recommendations on addressing this history. Another component of the law is the establishment of a national day of tribute on February 18 to remember the victims.

The bill was unanimously approved on January 28, 2026, by the National Assembly. It explicitly recognizes the responsibility of the state and introduces the official designation “relocated minors from La Réunion” to highlight the national dimension of the relocation policy. Previously, the term “Children of the Creuse” was used, which did not fully reflect the scale of the relocation.

Financial compensation will be granted as a fixed amount, paid through a fund established by the state. This sum is intended to cover all types of damages suffered. The exact procedures for applying for and receiving the compensation will be defined by a decree to be issued following consultations with the newly created commission.

The creation of the commission for memory aims to advance historical recognition and promote reconciliation among the former relocated individuals, their descendants, involved associations, local authorities, and the state. Furthermore, a place of memory with a cultural, educational, and scientific focus is planned to be established in Creuse.

The establishment of the national day of tribute on February 18 aims to raise awareness of this history and grant recognition to the victims. This day will be commemorated in the future in schools and public institutions to keep the memory of the “relocated minors from La Réunion” alive.

This legislative initiative represents an important step in acknowledging France’s past and intends to provide justice and recognition to those affected. It follows similar reparations laws for other groups, such as the harkis in 2022 and the repatriates from North Africa in 2005.

The implementation of this law will now be promoted by the competent ministries and the newly created commission to ensure that the planned measures are executed effectively and fairly.