In the historic heart of Paris, several dozen snow-covered tents shelter around 300 young African migrants, many of whom are unaccompanied minors seeking official recognition, as they spend nights outdoors in bitter winter temperatures. Most come from Guinea, Ivory Coast, and Mali, and for many, it is their first experience living on the streets. Sixteen-year-old Boubacar Camara from Guinea said, “There’s no choice but to keep going. You just have to stay strong, make sure you don’t die,” as he huddled in a tent near Pont Marie.
During the day, many seek refuge at humanitarian centres like the Diderot Shelter, run by the Salvation Army. Coordinator Helena Tellio described the young migrants’ mixed reactions: “For many, it’s their first time seeing snow, so there’s both excitement at seeing something so unusual and fear knowing they’ll sleep outside again.”
Paris authorities have urged that all camp residents be provided emergency shelter, citing the urgent need to protect vulnerable minors from freezing temperatures. The situation highlights a growing humanitarian challenge in the city, with these young migrants demonstrating resilience and determination despite exhaustion, cold, and uncertainty, as they cling to hopes for safety, recognition, and a better future.
