
The French territory of New Caledonia remains engulfed in a wave of violence and civil unrest, now in its fourth consecutive day, as protests against voting reforms continue to escalate. France has responded by declaring a state of emergency, banning TikTok and deploying additional security forces to quell the disturbances, which have resulted in fatalities, injuries, and widespread property damage.
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 unrest was triggered by the French government’s decision to enact voting reforms, extending voting rights to long-term residents of the territory. However, this move has sparked outrage among certain factions, particularly those advocating for the independence of New Caledonia, who perceive it as an attempt to undermine the political influence of the indigenous Kanak people.
What began as isolated clashes between protesters and law enforcement quickly spiraled into large-scale violence, with reports of looting, arson, and gunfire. The situation on the ground rapidly deteriorated, prompting the French authorities to impose a curfew and deploy military units to restore order 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 the need for a firm response to restore law and order, asserting that decisive action is necessary to protect the safety of citizens and restore public confidence.
βπ«π·π₯π³π¨ – 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.β¦ pic.twitter.com/BM1vvwWzj6
— π₯πThe Informant (@theinformant_x) May 15, 2024
Reports from POLITICO suggest that France suspects external actors, particularly Azerbaijan and Russia, of instigating and fueling the unrest in New Caledonia. While these allegations have yet to be substantiated, they underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and the potential for external interference in domestic affairs.
The ongoing turmoil in New Caledonia underscores the challenges of governance in French overseas territories and highlights the broader geopolitical tensions in the region. Efforts to address the underlying grievances and restore stability will require a coordinated and multifaceted approach that takes into account both domestic concerns and international influences.