New Caledonia, a French territory in the Pacific, is facing a prolonged period of unrest, now entering its fourth consecutive day of violent protests. France has declared a state of emergency and deployed additional security forces to restore order amidst escalating tensions.
French special forces GIGN and RAID heading to New Caledonia.
A military contingent of 500 French, including special forces, is expected.
GIGN: Elite tactical unit of the French National Gendarmerie.
RAID: Elite tactical unit of the French National Police. pic.twitter.com/CeXWwCFR0l
— Clash Report (@clashreport) May 16, 2024
The catalyst for the turmoil was the passage of voting reforms by the French government, granting voting rights to all residents who have lived in the territory for over a decade. However, this move has been met with resistance from certain factions, particularly those advocating for the independence of New Caledonia, who view it as a means to diminish the electoral influence of the indigenous Kanak people.
The initial clashes between anti-French protesters and local law enforcement rapidly escalated into widespread violence, resulting in fatalities, injuries, and numerous arrests. The situation on the ground deteriorated rapidly, with reports of looting, arson attacks on buildings including a police station, and a surge in gun violence. French authorities responded by imposing a curfew and deploying military units to restore calm and safeguard critical infrastructure.
In addition to these measures, the French government has taken steps to disrupt the protesters’ ability to coordinate online by banning the social media platform TikTok in New Caledonia. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has emphasized a firm stance against violence, asserting that stringent measures are necessary to restore order and ensure the safety of citizens.
❗🇫🇷🔥🇳🇨 – France bans TikTok in New Caledonia after deadly riots, state of emergency declared.
The security situation in New Caledonia, French territory, deteriorates due to insurrectional agitation by the indigenous Kanak people in search of greater autonomy and recognition.… pic.twitter.com/BM1vvwWzj6
— 🔥🗞The Informant (@theinformant_x) May 15, 2024
Reports from POLITICO suggest that France suspects external actors, particularly Azerbaijan and Russia, of fueling the unrest in New Caledonia. Tensions between France and Azerbaijan have been heightened due to France’s support for Armenia, Azerbaijan’s historical rival. Despite denials from Azerbaijan, French officials allege that the country has been supporting separatist movements in French territories, including New Caledonia.
Furthermore, Russian involvement in spreading anti-colonial sentiments and inciting violence has also been implicated. While these allegations have not been confirmed, they underscore the complexity of the situation and the geopolitical interests at play.
The ongoing unrest in New Caledonia highlights the challenges of governance in French overseas territories and underscores broader geopolitical tensions in the region. Efforts to address the underlying grievances and restore stability will require a multifaceted approach that considers both domestic and international dynamics.
