The French Senate has passed the programming bill for the refoundation of Mayotte, a move aimed at addressing the deep structural issues facing the overseas department. The bill,presented by Minister of State,Minister of Overseas,Manuel valls,was adopted at first reading with 226 votes in favor and 17 against on Tuesday,May 27,2025. An accompanying organic bill relating to the Mayotte department-region was adopted by 258 votes to 16.

The legislation seeks to adapt the institutional framework and tackle pressing economic, social, and environmental challenges, particularly in the wake of cyclone Chido, which struck on December 14, 2024.

Reinforced Governance for better Action Consistency

A key component of the bill is the concentration of responsibilities around the prefect of Mayotte, granting them authority over all state services until 2031. This measure is designed to enhance the coordination of public policies within the region.

The legislation also modifies the voting system for the election of the Mayotte Assembly,aiming for a more balanced portrayal among municipalities with diverse demographic and social characteristics.It introduces annual programming of priority investments,expected from the end of 2025,and a regular evaluation system. A follow-up committee will oversee the implementation of the bill and ensure effective management.

Immigration, Informal Housing, and Undeclared Work: A Trio of Targeted Measures

The bill addresses migratory flows, informal housing, and undeclared work in Mayotte. It tightens the conditions for residence permits for family reasons and increases supervision of family reunification to better control immigration from the Comoros and other African countries, particularly from the Great Lakes region.

Informal housing, exacerbated by Cyclone Chido, which destroyed numerous dwellings, is addressed through measures to accelerate the evacuation of slums. The bill simplifies appeals processes and expands the powers of authorized agents while upholding basic rights. Undeclared work in sectors like fishing,construction,and agriculture is targeted with provisions to strengthen controls and structure these economic areas. The bill also establishes a regional fisheries committee to organise the fishing sector,which is vital for local food security and the island’s economy.

“This measure aims to strengthen the coordination of public policies in a territorial context deemed complex and fragmented by senators.”

Economic, Social, and Institutional Reforms in Progress

The bill extends the city policy to all municipalities of Mayotte until 2030 to support the most socially and economically fragile territories. Infrastructure modernization is another priority, with accelerated plans for a long track and a new airport in Grande-Terre to improve air service and the region’s attractiveness.

An organic bill has also been adopted to adapt the institutional and electoral framework, aligning with the programming law’s objectives by consolidating local governance and preparing for the next departmental and regional elections.

The Senate’s adoption of this bill marks a critically important step in the legislative process for mayotte.