The French territory of New Caledonia has been immersed in violent upheaval since Monday, prompting the capital’s mayor, Sonia Lagarde, to describe Nouméa as “under siege.” This unrest, which has resulted in six fatalities and over 200 arrests, was ignited by Paris lawmakers’ decision to extend voting rights to more French citizens in local elections, a move that Indigenous Kanak leaders fear will erode their political influence. In response, French officials have launched a “major operation” involving over 600 officers to reclaim control of the crucial 60-kilometer route between Nouméa and the airport.

The riots have caused extensive destruction, with numerous public facilities, including municipal offices, libraries, and schools, set ablaze. To address the escalating crisis, approximately 1,000 additional police officers have been dispatched to reinforce the existing 1,700 personnel on the territory. The atmosphere remains tense, with residents reporting sounds of gunfire, helicopters, and “massive explosions” from gas canisters detonating inside burning buildings. Tourists stranded in the area have reported rationing goods while waiting for a means to leave. The French government has declared a state of emergency, imposing a nighttime curfew and banning public gatherings, alcohol sales, and the carrying of firearms.

On Friday, President Emmanuel Macron initiated direct conversations with both pro- and anti-independence officials, reflecting a proactive approach to the deteriorating situation. Concurrently, French security forces commenced a significant operation to regain control of the archipelago, deploying 600 gendarmes, including special counterterrorism agents, to reclaim vital infrastructure seized by pro-independence activists.

French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin emphasised that the operation’s primary objective is to reopen the critical 60-kilometre roadway connecting Nouméa to the airport, essential for supply transportation. The unrest, triggered by constitutional reforms extending voting rights in municipal elections, has led to six deaths and widespread devastation. As New Caledonia navigates its complex political landscape and historical ties to France, tensions remain high, compounded by accusations of external interference from Azerbaijan and Russia.

The deployment of security forces is necessary to restore order and protect key infrastructure, yet the escalation of violence and resulting casualties are deeply concerning. It is crucial to understand the situation’s intricacies, rooted in historical grievances and political conflicts, necessitating a sophisticated and peaceful approach for long-term resolution. Emphasising communication, reconciliation, and inclusive decision-making processes can pave the way for enduring peace and stability in the region.

Since 1853, New Caledonia has been a French territory, and its history of independence struggles is intricate. Despite numerous referendums, including a 2021 vote where 96.5% chose to remain with France, tensions among the Kanak population persist due to perceived discrimination and underinvestment. The 2020 referendum revealed that nearly half the population supported independence.

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic strained relations, which has exacerbated economic hardships and highlighted existing socioeconomic disparities. Also, recent constitutional changes that have sparked unrest stem from concerns over political representation and autonomy. These challenges are deeply embedded in colonial history, ethnic differences, and competing visions for New Caledonia’s future. The current turmoil underscores the unresolved nature of these historical grievances and the ongoing struggle for self-determination.

The recent unrest in New Caledonia highlights the unresolved political status and the continuous quest for self-determination. Despite three referendums, the outcomes have not been universally accepted, and tensions persist between pro-independence and anti-independence groups. The French government’s Indo-Pacific strategy, heavily reliant on New Caledonia, faces significant challenges due to domestic political imperatives.

International assistance and mediation efforts could significantly contribute to fostering productive dialogue and addressing the root causes of the unrest. By focusing on diplomacy and nonviolent conflict resolution strategies, all parties involved can work towards a peaceful and mutually beneficial outcome that respects the rights and aspirations of all New Caledonian communities. The international community must support a peaceful and inclusive resolution that addresses the historical grievances and aspirations of all communities in New Caledonia, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the Pacific region.