The world is a global village and migration is a global phenomenon. And, even as people seek new opportunities across borders, globalisation is likely to continue facilitation of migration for job prospects, higher living standards and educational opportunities.
During the post-colonial era, Goa too experienced significant migration to several countries including Paris, in France, which held promising economic opportunities and enhanced employment prospects for Goans.
MIGRATION TO FRANCE
Many Goans actively sought proficiency in French to relocate, attracted by advanced infrastructure and favourable living conditions. However, migration trends later shifted, with Goans increasingly moving to the United Kingdom and other regions, marking a notable change in Goan migration patterns.
Intrigued by the migration phenomena, Dr Irene Silveira, Assistant Professor of French and Francophone Studies at Goa University undertook research to bridge the limited knowledge and documentation of Goans migrating to Paris.
Silveira mentions that many notable Goans such as Francisco Luis Gomes, Abbé Faria, Aquino Bragança, Manoharrai Sardessai, Wendell Rodricks, amongst others had connections with France.
Her research interest in diaspora was sparked during her tenure as Deputy Director of Alliance Française when as she interacted with members of the community, she was struck by how Goans seamlessly transitioned between Konkani and French. She focused on diverse Goa-France connections in education, culture, and business.
Through the research she highlights migration stories and Goa’s postcolonial connections with France. This led her to uncover lesser known migration trends from Goa to Europe, often passing through Portugal or Portuguese colonies in Africa.
Conditions prevailing in the 50s and 60s in Europe and Asia-Africa eventually led to some Goans choosing Paris as their destination.
Drawing from her extensive research, Silveira emphasises the significant contributions of the Goan community in Paris. The second generation accessed prestigious educational and lucrative work opportunities across various sectors, driven by hard work, faith, motivation, and community support.
She highlights individuals who excelled in education, science, and business, noting how the first generation capitalised on real estate investments in Paris, benefiting both personal acquisitions and local community development in Goa.
The socio-economic impacts of Goan migration to Paris are evident in the transformation of fishing hamlets along Goa’s Zuari-Siridao and Agassaim, dotted by magnificent mansions made possible by real estate acquisitions and business investments facilitated by migration to Paris.
The migration influence can be observed in the cuisine during festivities, where Goan specialties like sorpotel and vindalhoo are complemented by French dishes, desserts, and cold meats.
Historically, France was favoured for its rich culture, vibrant opportunities, housing, lifestyle, and welcoming attitude. However, Silveira acknowledges a shift in preferences toward the United Kingdom, where economic and social integration is perceived as easier, with a reduced need to learn French.
Another work by Silveira, published by Taylor & Francis in English, delves into migration trajectories, settlement struggles, and social networks of the Goan community in Paris. She has also explored how Goans have integrated layers of French identity while maintaining their Goan and Indian roots.
Regarding policies to support Goan migrants in Paris, Silveira notes the community’s appreciation for initial French support during settlement. She underscores the importance of learning French for integration, with many migrants attending classes at institutes like Alliance Française in Goa or upon arrival in France.
Overall, Silveira’s research sheds light on the nuanced aspects of Goan migration to Paris, highlighting challenges and contributions that have shaped their identity and impacted their homeland.