In a recent development in New Caledonia, a French special collectivity in the southwest Pacific Ocean, two individuals lost their lives during a police operation. The incident occurred in the Saint Louis area near Nouméa, the capital, as authorities sought to apprehend activists allegedly involved in recent disturbances.
The unrest stems from proposed constitutional amendments and changes to voting lists by the French government, which have sparked concerns among the indigenous Kanak people. These changes are perceived as potentially marginalizing the Kanak population, who constitute approximately 40% of New Caledonia's inhabitants.
The recent violence erupted on May 13, 2024, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to declare a state of emergency two days later. In response, 3,500 troops were deployed to support local law enforcement in quelling the unrest. The conflict has resulted in 13 fatalities, primarily among the Kanak community, including two security force members.
New Caledonia's history with France dates back to 1853 when the archipelago first came under French control. In 1957, citizenship was extended to all Kanaks. Despite this, the indigenous population has long sought independence from France. The territory has held three independence referendums since 2018, all resulting in favor of remaining part of France.
The recent police operation aimed to arrest 10 individuals suspected of participating in two weeks of violence in May. This unrest included blockades of districts around the capital and beyond, arson, and looting. In June 2024, authorities arrested 11 Kanak activists, including Christian Tein, a leader of the pro-independence movement known as The Field Action Coordination Unit.
Seven of these activists, including Tein, were transferred to mainland France for pretrial detention, a distance of approximately 17,000 kilometers. They face serious charges, including complicity in attempted murder and participation in a criminal group with intent to plan a crime.
"The Kanak people will never give up on their desire for independence with peaceful means."
The ongoing tensions highlight the complex relationship between New Caledonia and France. The territory, known for its rich biodiversity and unique species like the kagu bird, possesses about 25% of the world's known nickel resources. Its economy heavily depends on financial support from France, resulting in one of the highest GDPs per capita in the Pacific region.
New Caledonia's unique status as a "sui generis collectivity" within the French Republic allows it to send representatives to the French National Assembly and Senate. The territory uses the CFP franc as its currency, which is pegged to the euro.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely. The Nouméa Accord of 1998, which set the groundwork for increased autonomy and potential independence, remains a crucial reference point in discussions about New Caledonia's future.