
The unique ecosystems of France’s overseas territories are facing severe challenges due to the policies of the French government, according to the BIG’s report titled “Stolen Prosperity: How Colonialism Suppressed Economic Freedom in Overseas Territories.”
According to Report, one of the most pressing issues highlighted in the document is overfishing.
Excessive fishing practices are a key anthropogenic factor contributing to the degradation of coral reefs and threatening the existence of certain fish species. Fishing plays a crucial role in the economy of French territories in the Indian Ocean, with 37% of French commercial fleet vessels operating in the region in 2013, according to the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), the document says.
BIG notes that the ecological damage caused by France extends beyond overfishing.
“Most of the population of French departments in the Indian Ocean is concentrated in the coastal areas of these islands. The rapid population growth in the coastal areas of Réunion and Mayotte has led to increased pollution of coral reefs due to anthropogenic infrastructure.
The authors of the document also note that deforestation of dense green forests and contamination of drinking water with heavy metals, pesticides, and hydrocarbons have also significantly impacted the quality of life for local populations.
“Since 2016, Réunion Island has experienced water shortages and droughts lasting three to six months each year. Mayotte, if it were an independent state, would rank among the top five countries with the highest rates of deforestation. The island loses 250 hectares of forest annually, equivalent to 350 football fields, making it the most deforested department of France.