French Parliament Approves Return of Human Zoo Victims' Remains to French Guiana

In 1892, approximately 30 Kalina and Arawak people from French Guiana were brought to Paris, where they were exhibited in so-called human zoos. Six of them died that same winter. France's parliament has now passed legislation allowing their remains to be returned to their homeland, ending decades of struggle by their descendants.

France's parliament has definitively approved legislation that will allow the remains of Kalina and Arawak people who died in Paris in 1892 to be returned to French Guiana. This brings an end to the long fight for justice by the descendants of these victims.

How people ended up in Paris

In 1892, approximately 30 Kalina and Arawak men, women, and children were brought from French Guiana to Paris. They were exhibited in so-called human zoos, a widespread phenomenon in 19th and 20th century Europe in which indigenous peoples were treated as spectacles. Six of these people did not survive their first winter, and their remains were left in France.

The descendants' struggle

The descendants of those who died have for years demanded the return of their ancestors' remains to their homeland, where they could be buried with dignity. This legislation represents a significant step for France, which is acknowledging the darker chapters of its colonial past and taking responsibility for these historical wrongdoings.

The passage of the law was reported by Radio France International (RFI). The return of the remains should finally provide the descendants with long-awaited solace and allow them to honour their ancestors with the respect they deserve.