What Are the Slums in Paris Called?

By Alice Nichols

Paris, the city of lights, is popularly known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and a romantic ambiance that attracts millions of tourists every year. However, hidden behind the glitz and glamour of the city lies a darker reality – the presence of slums.

Slums are defined as areas characterized by overcrowding, lack of basic amenities such as clean water supply, sanitation, and proper housing facilities. These areas are often inhabited by people with low-income jobs or no jobs at all and are usually located in the outskirts of cities.

In Paris, slums are referred to as bidonvilles. The term ‘bidonville’ is derived from ‘bidon,’ which means “tin can” in French. Bidonvilles were initially formed during the 19th century as temporary settlements for migrant workers who came to Paris in search of employment opportunities.

Over time, these settlements grew in size and number due to a variety of reasons such as poverty, lack of affordable housing options, and social exclusion. During the 20th century, bidonvilles became increasingly associated with immigrants from North Africa who faced discrimination and struggled to find stable employment.

Today, while bidonvilles are no longer as prevalent as they used to be in Paris due to government interventions aimed at improving living conditions for its citizens; some neighborhoods still bear witness to this dark chapter in Paris’s history.

With their makeshift shacks made from corrugated iron sheets or wooden planks stacked on top of each other without any proper ventilation or sanitation facilities; bidonvilles stand out like sore thumbs amidst the beauty and elegance that Paris is known for.

However, despite their unsanitary living conditions and lack of basic amenities; bidonvilles have become integral parts of Parisian culture. They represent an alternative way of life that challenges conventional norms and values.

In conclusion, while bidonvilles may not be as prominent as they once were in Paris, they still exist, and their presence serves as a reminder of the social and economic inequalities that continue to plague modern-day Paris. The government has taken steps to improve the living conditions of its citizens, but there is still much more work to be done to ensure that everyone has access to basic amenities and a decent standard of living.