New Caledonia Faces Renewed Tensions on French Takeover Anniversary

As New Caledonia marks 171 years since French colonization, heightened security measures and symbolic sovereignty declarations underscore long-standing divisions.

Authorities have imposed curfews, banned gatherings, and deployed 6,000 officers amid fears of fresh unrest.
The Indigenous Kanak population, advocating for independence, plans to issue a symbolic declaration of sovereignty.
Recent violence, including the killing of two men during a police operation, has rekindled anger among Kanak youth.
Tensions have been exacerbated by a controversial French voting reform that Kanaks fear will dilute their electoral power.
The new French government, led by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, faces pressure to address the crisis and uphold the promises of the Noumea Accord.