France to declare state of emergency in New Caledonia
France is poised to declare a state of emergency in New Caledonia in the wake of violent riots triggered by electoral reform concerns, which resulted in the deaths of several young indigenous Kanak and a police official. The unrest commenced following the approval of a new voting bill by lawmakers in Paris, which is feared by some local leaders to potentially weaken the indigenous Kanak vote. This decision has led to widespread turmoil on the French-governed Pacific island, marked by barricades, arson, and casualties. In response to the escalating violence, French authorities have announced plans to implement a state of emergency that would allow for the imposition of restrictions on gatherings and movements across the island. The government has also dispatched police reinforcements to New Caledonia. The controversial voting legislation enables French residents who have lived in New Caledonia for at least 10 years to participate in provincial elections. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin emphasized the urgent need for restoring peace in the region, noting the considerable number of injuries and damage to property. To address the tensions, French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed initiating dialogue between supporters and opponents of New Caledonia’s independence. The leading pro-independence political group has agreed to Macron’s dialogue offer, aiming to reach a consensus. New Caledonia, a significant nickel producer, faces additional challenges from a crisis in the nickel sector and a high poverty rate. The recent voting amendment is the newest contention in the long-standing debate over France’s influence in New Caledonia, a territory annexed by France in 1853 and designated as an overseas territory in 1946.