Overview of the Unrest in New Caledonia
The latest unrest in the Pacific territory of 270,000 people erupted over French plans to impose new rules that would give tens of thousands of non-indigenous residents voting rights.
Situation in New Caledonia
Separatists in riot-hit New Caledonia refused Monday to abandon road blocks that have paralysed the Pacific archipelago for a week in defiance of a major security operation by French forces. France has sent 1,000 security forces to its overseas territory that has been rocked by seven nights of violence that have left six dead, including two gendarmes, and hundreds injured.
Response and Actions
President Emmanuel Macron prepared to chair a new meeting of his defence and security council on Monday. Some 600 heavily armed French police and paramilitaries “neutralised” 76 road blocks on the 60-kilometre route between the capital Noumea and La Tontouta International Airport, officials said.
Challenges and Continued Resistance
Pro-independence, largely indigenous Kanak activists, vowed they would not give up. AFP journalists said some road blocks taken down by security forces were being rebuilt even bigger by pro-independence forces. Anti-riot blast balls could be heard in one Noumea suburb, reflecting the intensity of the situation.
Local Impact and Reactions
“It feels like being in The Walking Dead,” said a local resident, highlighting the sense of insecurity and chaos prevailing in the region. The airport in Noumea will remain closed to commercial flights until Thursday, adding to the challenges faced by residents and visitors.
Continued Tension and Economic Impact
Prime Minister Gabriel Attal is considering extending the state of emergency due to the ongoing unrest. The New Caledonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) reported “catastrophic” economic damage with businesses being looted and set on fire.
Political and Ethnic Divide
New Caledonia’s political landscape remains divided on whether the territory should remain part of France, become autonomous, or seek independence. The indigenous Kanak population, making up about 40% of the total population, has concerns about the impact of new voting regulations on their representation.
International Response and Legal Challenges
The unrest in New Caledonia has drawn international attention, with civil liberties groups challenging measures such as the TikTok ban. The government heads of other French overseas territories have also voiced concerns about the voting reform.
