Tensions Rise in New Caledonia Over Constitutional Amendment
Demonstrations and protests have erupted in Paris and New Caledonia as tensions over a recent constitutional amendment continue to escalate. The amendment, which allows for an increase in the number of people entitled to vote in local elections, has been a major point of contention among independence advocates.
In response to two weeks of riots and violence, the French government announced on Tuesday the lifting of the state of emergency in New Caledonia. However, a curfew remains in place, and additional security reinforcements are being sent to the French archipelago located in the South Pacific. The French presidency explained that the easing of restrictions would allow the pro-independence Kanak Front (Front des Liberation Kanaks National Socialists) to hold its meetings and for local representatives to work on removing roadblocks.
Despite lifting the state of emergency, the situation remains tense. The French government has dispatched seven additional units of mobile forces, totaling 480 mobile gendarmes, bringing the total to 3,500 security forces deployed in the archipelago. The unrest has already resulted in seven deaths, including two gendarmes.
The violence, which began on May 15, was sparked by the constitutional amendment aimed at expanding the local electorate by approximately 25,000 people. Independence advocates fear that this measure would dilute their voting power and have been demanding the withdrawal of the reform. Macron has stated that he wants to give priority to achieving a ‘comprehensive agreement’ on the future of the archipelago between loyalist and independent elected officials, setting a deadline for the end of June.
Noumea’s La Tontouta International Airport remains closed to commercial flights until at least June 2, strewn with wrecked cars resulting from the ongoing unrest. French and foreign tourists stranded in the archipelago are being evacuated through Magenta Airport via chartered military flights from France, Australia, and New Zealand.
The recent riots are considered the worst violence in New Caledonia in 40 years, raising fears that the region might plunge into civil war. The Kanak Front acknowledges that their current main goal is to ease tensions and find lasting solutions for New Caledonia. Both loyalists and separatists have been given until the end of June to start outlining an agreement.
- Residents in New Caledonia, particularly in poorer districts such as Vallée-du-Tir, are witnessing clashes and disruptions in daily life. Schools remain closed until mid-June, and food and fuel shortages have exacerbated the difficulties.
- French President Emmanuel Macron, during his visit to Berlin, has softened his statements regarding the national referendum on expanding the electorate, clarifying that the move stems from 'a simple reading of the Constitution' rather than an active intention.
- The French government has facilitated the evacuation of stranded civilians, with around 1,200 people already evacuated by plane. Additionally, 270 Caledonian residents have returned home. Efforts are being made to ensure the safety and return of all affected individuals.
- Senator Claude Mallory has raised concerns about Chinese interference, highlighting that New Caledonia's significant nickel reserves, which constitute about 30% of global supplies, are crucial for China’s battery production.
- As the deadline set by Macron approaches, the focus remains on achieving an inclusive and lasting resolution that balances the interests of loyalists, separatists, and the economic stability of the region.
