New Caledonia

Chaos in New Caledonia: France Declares State of Emergency Amid Violent Riots

France imposes state of emergency in New Caledonia after deadly unrest and riots have left the South Pacific territory in chaos. Read more about the unfolding situation here!

The picturesque island of New Caledonia has been plunged into chaos as France declares a state of emergency in response to violent riots. President Emmanuel Macron's push for voting reform has triggered widespread unrest in this strategic South Pacific territory. Hundreds of French police have been deployed to quell the riots that erupted over a bill allowing French citizens to vote in provincial elections after 10 years of residence.

Amid the escalating violence, armed forces are safeguarding New Caledonia's airports and ports following multiple nights of deadly riots that have claimed the lives of four individuals. The unrest has led to the arrest of hundreds as authorities work to restore calm in the region. The French government has announced the deployment of troops to secure key infrastructure in New Caledonia as the situation remains tense and unstable.

The state of emergency in New Caledonia underscores the deep-seated tensions and political strife surrounding the proposed voting reform. With at least two people killed and over 300 injured in the riots, the situation remains volatile. France's decision to impose a state of emergency highlights the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for de-escalation measures to prevent further bloodshed.

As rioters continue to barricade roads and incite violence, the international community closely watches the unfolding crisis in New Caledonia. The protests against the voting reform, which aims to expand voting rights to non-Indigenous individuals, reflect the complex dynamics at play in this overseas French territory. The repercussions of these events are not only local but also have broader implications for France's governance of its overseas territories.