The Gaîté Lyrique theater in Paris remains occupied by around 446 migrants, creating what management describes as an “explosive situation” marked by increasing violence. After four months of squatting, the venue has issued a plea for help, admitting it can no longer manage operations or ensure safety.
Originally, the migrants were invited to attend a refugee-focused event in December, but they never left. Their numbers have nearly doubled, forcing the theater to halt events and suffer financial losses that could lead to bankruptcy. Viral videos of the occupation have fueled online debate, with critics pointing to broader immigration issues in France.
Management, while not opposing the occupation, has raised alarms over fire hazards, including recent outbreaks that required emergency response. Employees, instead of running cultural programs, now conduct 24-hour patrols for safety. Due to the worsening conditions, the theater’s operators, SAS Gaîté Lyrique, have informed the City of Paris of their intent to suspend their concession contract by February 28. Without official intervention, staff will be forced to vacate, leaving the venue unmanaged.
A court order issued on February 13 mandates an eviction within a month, though authorities have yet to act. Theater staff, despite publicly supporting the migrants, also appear to favor an eviction—provided authorities find alternative shelter for the occupants.
French newspaper Le Parisien reports that management urges authorities to “preserve the Gaîté Lyrique” and ensure its future as a cultural hub. Meanwhile, social media is ablaze with debates, with some users framing the situation as emblematic of France’s ongoing immigration crisis. One viral post called it a symbol of mass immigration’s impact on European institutions, sparking further controversy.
