The Harraga, illegal immigrants from all over Algeria, are doubly marginalized. They embark on the arduous journey across the Mediterranean to France, hoping for a better life in the European Eldorado. Believing they are escaping unemployment and the malaise resulting from authorities' marginalization, they find themselves in a situation worse than ever before. Their existence is precarious in this mirage-filled Paris, described as "the river of wolves," expressing their daily suffering.

Survival becomes their constant state, with street vendors selling cigarettes, Lyrica, Rivotril, and Ecstasy—substances they consume as a last-ditch escape from their tragic reality. From a social and economic perspective, not all were in need in their countries of origin. It's more about a societal vision lacking reference to the Western images portrayed by the media. The current generations believe less in the Algerian government's narrative, commonly known as the "System." Hence, the desire to escape an imposed fate.

"We deal with it": the opening line in any discussion about them. It's a fait accompli, assumed. Many face deportation orders ("OQTF"), making survival their primary goal. Attempts to move to other parts of France or Europe are common since "France doesn't suit me," as one of their expressions goes. They seek refuge from daily police harassment tied to their illegal activities. No happy ending. Dreams recede as they approach. Some give up and voluntarily return to their countries, while others continue their ordeal.

"Rocked by nasty waves, one sends you back to the other and there’s no shore," as some describe their situation. Evenings are a different world for illegal cigarette vendors, just as hard and uncertain as the day. Squatting becomes the common solution, as without proper documentation, renting a room is impossible, despite their budget. "As I speak, all my energy is devoted to finding a place to stay," says one Harraga, less fortunate than compatriots with the same status. A squatted flat is a luxury, and having no electricity or running water is tolerated. If lacking these necessities, they gather in a cellar of an accessible building they've located.