Réunionese

Réunionese is an English-language term used to describe things related to Réunion, a French overseas department and region in the Indian Ocean. It is commonly used as a demonym for the island’s inhabitants, though the standard French terms are Réunionnais for men and Réunionnaise for women. The term can also refer to the Réunion Creole language, sometimes called Kreol Réunionnais, a French-based creole spoken by the majority of residents.

The Réunionese population is multilingual and multiethnic, shaped by centuries of migration, including African, Malagasy, Indian, European, and Chinese ancestry. Most residents speak Réunion Creole in everyday life, while French is the language of schooling, administration, and media. The use of English is limited in public life and education.

Réunion Creole (Kreol Réunionnais) is a French-based creole with influences from Malagasy, Indian languages, Chinese, and Arabic. It has regional varieties and is widely used in informal speech, music, and storytelling. French remains the official language of government, higher education, and official communication.

Réunion is an integral part of France and the European Union; the euro is the currency. The island’s history includes French colonization and the abolition of slavery in 1848. The Creole language, while central to regional identity, does not have official status, though it is celebrated as a key element of Réunionese culture.

Cultural traditions on Réunion include music such as sega and maloya, along with a cuisine that blends African, Indian, Malagasy, Chinese, and European influences. The economy is diversified, with tourism, agriculture (notably sugar and vanilla), and services playing major roles.