Les politiques d’accueil et d’habitat des Gens du voyage ou la fabrique d’une population problématique ? Une analyse à partir du cas du département de l’Aveyron (France)

Using the department of Aveyron as a case study, this research dissertation analyzes how different policies for the reception and housing of Travellers in France have contributed to the construction of a problematic population by examining the socio-political dynamics and the legal context of the public management of nomadism. It reveals a historical pattern of public policies aimed at monitoring and controlling Travellers, as evidenced by discriminatory laws from the early 20th century to recent legislation.The dissertation examines the evolution of these policies, especially since the 1990s, and focuses on how local authorities' reactions to the increased visibility of Travellers and alleged public order disturbances led to an urgent politicization of the issue. In particular, it examines the implementation and impact of the 2000 Besson II law, which was designed to balance the rights and duties of Travellers and local municipalities. Despite its aim of social and urban integration, this policy often resulted in increased control, surveillance and possibly ghettoization, reinforcing the notion of Travellers as a problematic population. Furthermore, the analyses presented in this dissertation challenge prevailing stereotypes by illustrating the specific territorial attachments and identities of Travellers, as opposed to their portrayal as aimless wanderers. It also addresses the role of the media in perpetuating these negative stereotypes and their influence on public opinion, further entrenching the perception of this population as a societal problem.Ultimately, the analyses in this dissertation highlight the complex interplay between public policy, societal attitudes and the lived experiences of Travellers, questioning the effectiveness of current approaches and suggesting the need for more innovative and inclusive policies. ; À partir du cas du département de l’Aveyron comme cas d’étude, ce mémoire de recherche analyse comment les différentes politiques d’accueil et d’habitat des gens du voyage en France ont ...