European Union News in New York City, USA: Saint Pierre…

European Union News in New York City, USA: Saint Pierre and Miquelon – A Farce in the Atlantic

TL;DR

Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a tiny French archipelago off the coast of Canada that is administratively part of the European Union but culturally and geographically much closer to North America. Its unique status makes it a hotbed of bureaucratic absurdity and a source of amusement for New Yorkers who are aware of its existence.

The Farcical Archipelago: A French Outpost in the Atlantic

Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a group of small islands located about 10 miles south of the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Despite their proximity to North America, the islands are technically part of France and, by extension, the European Union. This peculiar arrangement is a legacy of France's colonial past and has resulted in a strange mix of cultures and laws on the islands.

A Tale of Two Cities: Saint Pierre and Miquelon vs. New York

While Saint Pierre and Miquelon may share a distant connection to the European Union, its relationship with New York City is even more tenuous. The archipelago is home to a population of just over 6,000 people, while New York City has a population of over 8 million. The two places could not be more different in terms of size, culture, and economic development.

Bureaucratic Absurdities: The EU's Grip on a Distant Land

Despite their remoteness, Saint Pierre and Miquelon are subject to all the laws and regulations of the European Union. This has led to some amusing situations, such as EU inspectors visiting the islands to enforce food safety regulations on the local seafood industry. The islanders have also been known to complain about the high cost of EU-mandated equipment, which they argue is unnecessary in their small-scale economy.

Cultural Disconnect: Where Paris Meets the Maritimes

The cultural divide between Saint Pierre and Miquelon and the rest of the European Union is also evident in the islands' lifestyle. The islanders speak a French dialect that is heavily influenced by English and have more in common with their Canadian neighbors than with the people of mainland France. They also have a strong maritime culture and rely heavily on fishing for their livelihood.

A Tourist Trap for the Curious: Exploring the Absurdities of Saint Pierre and Miquelon

For tourists, Saint Pierre and Miquelon offer a unique opportunity to experience the bizarre and wonderful world of EU regulations and French bureaucracy in a remote and beautiful setting. Visitors can explore the charming town of Saint-Pierre, visit the local museum, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the islands. Just be prepared for some unexpected surprises along the way.

If You Know, You Know…

What do Saint Pierre and Miquelon, a drag queen, and a New York City subway rat have in common?

…They're all part of the EU's bizarre and wonderful world of bureaucratic absurdities.