La Réunion: The French Outpost in the Heart of the Indian Ocean
SAINT-DENIS, 25 February 2026 — Situated between Madagascar and Mauritius, the island of La Réunion remains one of the most geographically diverse and politically unique territories in the Southern Hemisphere. As a French overseas department and region, it serves as the European Union’s southernmost stronghold, blending Parisian administrative structures with a vibrant, multicultural Creole identity.
Current Health and Environmental Updates
As of late February 2026, regional authorities have issued several alerts regarding public health and geological activity on the island.
Mpox Cases Confirmed
The Regional Health Agency (ARS) of La Réunion confirmed today that two new cases of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) have been recorded on the island. This brings the total number of active cases to six. Health officials are monitoring the situation closely to prevent further local transmission within the community.
Volcanic Activity at Piton de la Fournaise
The Observatoire Volcanologique du Piton de la Fournaise (OVPF) reported on 20 February 2026 that seismic activity has intensified. Since mid-February, 317 superficial volcano-tectonic earthquakes have been recorded at depths between 1.6 and 2.1 km beneath the summit zone. While no eruption is currently underway, the island remains under heightened surveillance.
Cyclone Monitoring: Horacio
Meteorological services have been tracking Tropical System Horacio. Five days ago, the system showed a “textbook” parabolic trajectory. While it moved closer to Rodrigues earlier this week, La Réunion continues to monitor late-season swells and wind patterns typical of the February cyclone window.
A History of Integration
Unlike many other islands in the Indian Ocean that pursued independence in the 20th century, La Réunion chose a path of deeper integration with its colonial administrator. The island’s modern administrative status is defined by several key milestones:
| Year | Event / Status Change |
|---|---|
| 1946 | Transitioned from a French colony to an overseas département (DOM). |
| 1974 | Gained the status of a French région, further aligning its governance with Metropolitan France. |
| Current | Governed as an integral part of the French Republic and the European Union. |
Demographics and Culture
La Réunion is often cited as a model of multiculturalism. The population of approximately 850,000 is a “melting pot” of diverse ancestral origins, including Europe, Mozambique, India, China, and Madagascar.
Ethnic Composition and Language
Creoles of mixed origins constitute the majority of the population (roughly 90%). White residents (often referred to as Zoreilles if from the mainland) make up about one-quarter, while those of Indian descent (Malbars) account for approximately 21%. While French is the official language used in schools and government, Réunion Creole is the primary language spoken in daily life.
Administrative Structure
The island is organised into a hierarchy that mirrors the French mainland system:
- 4 Arrondissements: Centred around major hubs like Saint-Denis and Saint-Pierre.
- 24 Communes: Local municipal districts.
- 47 Cantons: Electoral subdivisions.
Geography and Economy
Covering 2,512 km², the island is dominated by two massive volcanic peaks: the extinct Piton des Neiges and the highly active Piton de la Fournaise. The rugged interior, featuring three natural amphitheatres known as “cirques” (Cilaos, Salazie, and Mafate), has earned the island a UNESCO World Heritage designation.
Economically, the island relies heavily on French subsidies, tourism, and agriculture—specifically sugar cane and vanilla production. As part of the Eurozone, the island uses the Euro (€), which provides a level of currency stability not often found in neighbouring island nations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is La Réunion a country?
No, La Réunion is not an independent country. It is an overseas department and region of France. It has the same political status as departments in mainland France, such as Brittany or Normandy.
Do I need a visa to visit La Réunion?
Because it is part of France, EU citizens can enter with a national ID card. For non-EU citizens, visa requirements generally mirror those of the Schengen Area, though La Réunion is not technically part of the Schengen geographic zone.
What is the capital of La Réunion?
The administrative capital is Saint-Denis, located on the northern coast of the island.
What are the main religions on the island?
Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion, though there are significant Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist communities, reflecting the island’s diverse heritage.