This video analyzes the BUMIDOM (Bureau pour le développement des migrations interdépartementales), a French organization that facilitated migration from the French Overseas Departments (DOM) to mainland France, primarily in the 1960s and 70s. The speakers examine BUMIDOM's policies and their lasting social and demographic consequences, framing them within a post-colonial context.
BUMIDOM's Post-Colonial Nature: The video argues that BUMIDOM's policies, though presented as benevolent, were rooted in a post-colonial power dynamic, prioritizing the interests of mainland France over those of the DOM. The organization's actions contributed significantly to depopulation in the DOM.
Technocratic and Comptable Approach: BUMIDOM's approach was heavily technocratic, treating migrants as statistics and focusing on numerical migration targets rather than individual needs.
Issues with Housing and Employment: BUMIDOM faced significant difficulties in providing adequate housing and employment for migrants, largely due to racism and discrimination in mainland France. Migrants from the DOM often experienced housing discrimination and were housed in substandard conditions compared to other immigrant groups.
Gendered Migration and Formation: Migration patterns were highly gendered, with women disproportionately directed toward domestic service jobs. Training programs focused on "adaptation to metropolitan life," which often involved disciplining migrants and reinforcing social inequalities.
Migrant Agency and Resistance: Despite systemic challenges, migrants demonstrated agency and actively resisted BUMIDOM's control. They developed their own strategies for navigating the system and building their lives in France, often expressing gratitude while maintaining their independence.
