evidence: Satellite image of Europa Island, France [...] Meet Europa Island, a tiny atoll (28 sq. km) in the Mozambique Channel, which belongs to France as part of the "Scattered Islands in the Indian Ocean". About halfway between Madagascar and the Southeastern Coast of Africa, this island consists of relatively flat and sandy terrain as well a saltwater mangrove lagoon. "L’île Europa" was uninhabited until 1820 and has welcome very few visitors since, due to its inaccessibility and inhospitability, but also to very strict rules to protect local wildlife. [...] Shortly before Madagascar regained its independance from France’s colonial occupation in 1960, the French government detached Europa Island to integrate it into its overseas départements and territories. The Republic of Madagascar has maintained its claim of sovereignty over the island, causing France to instal a permanent military presence since 1973. At stake : a strategic presence in the region, as well as control of the island’s Exclusive Economic Zone covering more than 127,000 sq. km.