France declares state of emergency in New Caledonia amid fatal riots

The unrest was directly linked to contentious electoral reform in New Caledonia, an archipelago and French overseas territory in the Pacific. The violence erupted at the beginning of the week, immediately after the French National Assembly approved the electoral reform. This reform allows French residents who have lived on the island for 10 years to participate in provincial elections—a move critics argue favours pro-French politicians and could sideline the indigenous Kanak population. The legislation passed with a significant majority, 351 votes to 153, reflecting substantial support among lawmakers despite fierce opposition.

The protests quickly escalated into widespread riots, during which several businesses were looted, and numerous vehicles and buildings, including a school, were set ablaze. To quell the violence, the French government has dispatched an additional 500 officers to the island. It has blocked access to TikTok amidst concerns over its use to organize and incite unrest.

"The government in Paris announced a state of emergency on Wednesday," Reuters Agency reported, a measure French Prime Minister Attal described as necessary to implement "mass measures to restore order." This move grants local authorities enhanced powers to restrict access to certain areas and to conduct searches, underpinning France's commitment to re-establishing order and security.

In response to the escalating violence, the Elysee Palace issued a firm declaration, stating, "All acts of violence are unacceptable and will meet with an unyielding response to ensure the restoration of republican order." Reports from the French newspaper "Le Monde" highlight the deployment of military personnel to Noumea, New Caledonia's capital, tasked with securing key infrastructures like the port and airport.

The state of emergency, enacted at 8:00 p.m. Paris time on Wednesday (which corresponds to 7:00 a.m. Thursday in New Caledonia), underscores the gravity of the situation and the French government's resolve to protect public order. Under French law, this legal framework is invoked during "direct threats resulting from serious breaches of public order," empowering local authorities with extensive measures to manage and mitigate the crisis.

This declaration comes at a critical juncture for New Caledonia, spotlighting the territory's deep divisions and challenges. As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution that addresses the underlying issues fueling such widespread discontent.