Unrest in New Caledonia

Current Context: New Caledonia, a French territory in the Pacific, has experienced renewed unrest following electoral roll changes and the collapse of political talks.

About:

• Location: Southwestern Pacific Ocean, east of Australia.
• Political Status: French collectivity under the 1998 Nouméa Accord, which promised increased autonomy and a path to potential independence.
• Recent Developments: Despite rejecting independence in referendums held in 2018, 2020, and 2021, pro-independence sentiments among the indigenous Kanak population remain strong.

Key Issues:

• Electoral roll changes have been perceived as undermining the political influence of the indigenous Kanak people.
• The collapse of political talks has led to increased tensions and unrest in the region.