New Caledonia, a French territory in the Pacific, has been facing political unrest since May 2024 due to a controversial reform proposal. The French government aimed to change the electoral laws, allowing more French immigrants to vote, which indigenous Kanak groups viewed as a threat to their political power. This triggered violent protests, causing 13 deaths and over $2 billion in damages.
In response, French Prime Minister Michel Barnier announced that the reform will not proceed. He also postponed provincial elections to 2025 and initiated dialogue efforts to ease tensions. The unrest has highlighted long-standing divisions between pro-independence Kanaks and those loyal to France, with the Kanaks continuing to push for sovereignty.
Regional Reaction
Pacific Island nations, particularly through the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), have expressed concern. Vanuatu’s Prime Minister voiced support for the Kanak pro-independence movement, criticising France’s handling of the crisis. The PIF is planning a fact-finding mission to New Caledonia to mediate and seek a peaceful solution, which France has agreed to, though security concerns have delayed its execution.
What’s Next?
New Caledonia's future remains uncertain. While the unrest has calmed somewhat, tensions persist as pro-independence groups continue to demand greater autonomy or full sovereignty. The French government has committed to opening a dialogue, but divisions within New Caledonia’s independence movement complicate efforts for a unified resolution.
The upcoming mission from the Pacific Islands Forum, along with the French government’s planned discussions, will be critical in shaping New Caledonia's political future. The situation reflects deeper questions about decolonisation and self-determination in the Pacific region.
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