The evacuation took place just before the winter break, raising concerns about the lack of alternative housing for the displaced minors.
Local authorities and support groups have criticized the state for not conducting a social assessment prior to the eviction, highlighting the vulnerability of the individuals affected.
The incident reflects ongoing challenges in addressing the needs of unaccompanied minor migrants in urban areas.
Increased pressure on local shelters and camps as evicted individuals seek alternative housing solutions.
Potential protests and actions from support groups advocating for the rights and needs of unaccompanied minors in Lyon.
A possible reassessment of local government policies regarding the housing and support of underage migrants.
Evacuation of Underage Migrants in Lyon Raises Concerns
In Lyon, approximately thirty individuals, primarily believed to be underage migrants, were evacuated from a squat early Tuesday morning. The operation, conducted by the police in the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse district around 6:30 a.m., was executed in accordance with a court ruling from January 2024. The squat, known as the Neyret squat, had been occupied since March 2023 and was home to around 70 minor migrants, many of whom were from West Africa and attending local schools.
The Rhône prefecture reported that five individuals in an irregular immigration status were arrested during the evacuation. The squat was owned by the congregation of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, which had sought legal action over the illegal occupation. Despite the prefecture's assertion that the evacuated individuals were
