Opinion | Postcard from Paris: foreign residents praise Olympic host city but speaking French a must
- We speak to Paris inhabitants who moved to the country from different parts of the world about their experiences
The sample size might be small but those we spoke to who had moved to and lived in Paris for many years had little to complain about when it comes to its inclusiveness.
Four expat said the French capital was an inclusive city and praised the opportunities and possibilities it provided and offered, but some also stressed that speaking French was imperative.
Sekou, who has been an Uber driver for three years, moved from Mali 15 years ago in search of a “better life”.
“I like living here because of the possibilities,” Sekou, who previously worked at a laboratory for dental products, said. “You can chase your dream here.”
Compatriot Ousman, who was born in France, was less enthusiastic, however, and said Paris is generally an inclusive city, but the 39-year-old food truck owner added that it could be “complicated” for foreign nationals, largely because of the language barriers.
“If you are born in France and speak fluent French, no problem,” he said. “But any immigrants who don’t speak the language may find it more difficult to start with.