French Senate Unanimously Approves Delay of New Caledonia Elections

The decision comes amid efforts to restore peace in the archipelago after months of violence and unrest.

The elections, initially scheduled before December 15, 2024, have been postponed to no later than November 30, 2025, to allow for a peaceful democratic process.
The delay was a promise by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, aiming to calm tensions following violent clashes that resulted in 13 deaths and significant property damage.
The proposal, originally from the socialist opposition, was adopted by the Senate and will be reviewed by the National Assembly on November 6.
Key political figures, Gérard Larcher and Yaël Braun-Pivet, will visit New Caledonia from November 9 to 14 to foster dialogue between loyalist and independentist groups.
The postponed elections are part of a broader initiative to address electoral issues, including the controversial electorate freeze that has been in place since 2007.