Employment challenges in the French overseas territories

Employment challenges in the French overseas territories: a worrying situation

The French overseas departments and territories (DOM-TOM) are facing major structural difficulties in terms of employment, with unemployment rates significantly higher than those in mainland France. This situation, which has persisted for decades, reveals the particular challenges facing these territories.

Endemic unemployment

Unemployment rates in the French overseas departments and territories are reaching alarming levels:
- Reunion: approximately 21% of the active population
- Guadeloupe: almost 23%
- Martinique: around 18%
- Guyana: more than 19%
- Mayotte: more than 30%

These figures, which far exceed the national metropolitan average, particularly affect young people, with an unemployment rate often exceeding 50% among those under 25.

Structural causes

Insularity and remoteness
- High transportation costs
- Restricted local markets
- Dependence on imports
- Difficulties in accessing metropolitan and international markets

A fragile economy
- Underdeveloped private sector
- Strong dependence on the public sector
- Lack of economic diversification
- Competition from neighboring countries with lower labor costs

Training problems
- Mismatch between the training offer and the needs of the local market
- Illiteracy rate higher than the national average
- Difficulties in accessing higher education
- Brain drain to the metropolis

Social consequences

This situation has many repercussions:
- Growing social insecurity
- Development of the informal economy
- Recurring social tensions
- Emigration of young graduates
- Dependence on social benefits

Possible solutions

Strengthening training
- Development of training adapted to local needs
- Reinforcement of learning
- Creation of sectors of excellence

Economic diversification
- Support for business creation
- Development of sustainable tourism
- Valorization of local resources
- Innovation in emerging sectors (digital, renewable energies)

Specific aid measures
- Urban free zones
- Exemptions from social security contributions
- Hiring assistance
- Support for productive investment


The employment situation in the French Overseas Territories remains a major challenge for the French Republic. Solutions require a comprehensive and coordinated approach, taking into account the specificities of each territory. The commitment of the State, local authorities and economic stakeholders is essential to create a positive and sustainable dynamic in terms of employment.