Marseille
Reviving the legacy of Mediterranean hospitality
Key Takeaways
- 1
Since the city elected a left-wing coalition in 2020 after decades of conservative administration, municipal officials and civil society have been working together more closely.
- 2
Marseille has committed to an open harbour policy, with officials referring to the city’s history as capital of the Mediterranean: “When someone is drowning, we do not ask for papers, we take them out of the water.”
What is unique about Marseille?
Open harbour again after years of stagnation: Marseille, as one of the Mediterranean’s historical port cities, has a longstanding history of migration. However, over the last few decades the local government has done little to promote inclusive policies for migrants. Instead, numerous civic initiatives have helped the migrant population to find accommodation, offered basic support and launched campaigns for migrants' rights. The election of Mayor Rubirola, head of a left-wing coalition led by Europe Ecology (Green Party), in 2020 changed the course of local politics, positioning Marseille as a Solidarity City by declaring its harbour open and engaging in international city networks.
What are the key factors?
Long-standing activism meets a new administration: Collaboration between public authorities and civil society in Marseille is quite recent, despite the long-term experience of civil society initiatives and NGOs in providing services that welcome newcomers in the city. 2020 marked a turning point in local politics. The new municipal administration committed to reframing migration and inclusion policies, an approach that local media described as the “Marseille Spring”.
What are the greatest achievements so far?
City officials speak out in favour of the unconditional intake of refugees: The commitment to an open harbour policy and the mayor’s public interventions advocating the unconditional in-take of refugees are the most visible changes introduced by the new city government. The less antagonistic relationship between the city and civil society has allowed for more participation by both in national and international Solidarity City initiatives.
Political activities and advocacy beyond the city level
Marseille has made an effort to underscore its position as a welcoming city at both national and international levels. The new administration has joined networks with other cities, for example, the ANVITA (Association Nationale des Villes et Territoires Accueillants / National Welcoming Cities and Territories Association) and the Solidarity Community Network in support of SOS Mediterranée. In June of 2021, Marseille also joined the “From Sea to the City” alliance.
Member of the following networks
Download the full city report
The city report contains more information about the city’s migration and inclusion policies and selected local approaches. Report from 2021, updated in 2023.