Macron Prioritizes Calm Amid Deadly Unrest in New Caledonia
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in New Caledonia on Thursday, making a high-profile visit to the French Pacific territory amidst severe unrest. The violence, which has claimed at least six lives, erupted over electoral reforms and underscores the longstanding independence aspirations of the Indigenous Kanak people.
Landing at La Tontouta International Airport, roughly 30 miles from Noumea, the New Caledonian capital, Macron stressed that restoring peace and security is his top priority. “Our wish, along with that of my ministers and the government, is to stand by the people and ensure a swift return to calm and safety,” he stated.
The president, accompanied by Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu, and Overseas Territories Minister Marie Guevenoux, plans to engage with local officials to assess the extent of the damage caused by the recent violence. The unrest, characterized by shootings and arson, has left a trail of destruction estimated in the hundreds of millions of euros.
“We will address the economic reconstruction, provide support and a rapid response, and tackle the sensitive political questions regarding New Caledonia’s future,” Macron said. “By the end of the day, decisions will be taken and announcements will be made.”
Macron's visit, although initially planned for 12 hours, may extend based on the evolving situation. He expressed flexibility, stating, “We will see. I don’t have a limit.”
The violence began on May 13 as the French National Assembly debated changes to New Caledonia's voter lists, eventually approving a bill that permits residents living in the territory for at least ten years to vote in provincial elections. Opponents argue this measure favors pro-France politicians and further marginalizes the Kanaks, who have faced historical segregation and discrimination.
New Caledonia has long been a region of tension between the pro-independence Kanaks and descendants of French settlers who prefer to remain part of France. Macron has previously facilitated dialogue between these factions, leading to a 2018 referendum where New Caledonians narrowly voted to stay with France.
The recent unrest is the most severe since the 1980s, prompting Macron to scrap his schedule and make the 10,000-mile journey. More than 1,000 security reinforcements have been deployed, and a state of emergency was declared to help restore order.
So far, the violence has resulted in six deaths, including four civilians and two gendarmes. More than 280 arrests have been made, and 84 police officers and gendarmes have been injured, though the number of civilian injuries remains unclear.
Macron aims to reignite discussions between the divided local leaders and commend the French security forces for their efforts in restoring stability. His visit is a significant gesture of support and a call for unity and peace amidst the ongoing turmoil.
