Union des Français de l'Etranger

It was founded in 1927 and is the oldest association representing French expatriates and is recognised as a public utility.

One of the biggest branches of Union des Français de l'étranger was founded in Canada in 1983 by Jean-Luc Malherbe and Josette Villavaryan-Bardon.

It aims to defend the interests of French citizens who live in the region of the national capital of Canada, the Ontario agglomeration of Ottawa and the Gatineau side of Quebec.

The association groups the French community and organises friendly meals and méchoui (North African style barbecue of spit-roast whole lamb over a charcoal pit), wine and cheese parties, and opportunities to meet French political personalities passing through the region.

It collaborates with Jacques Janson, the representative of the Centre and the West of Canada, to convey and resolve files which have been submitted to them by French citizens in the region.