Amid violent unrest in New Caledonia, the Australian and New Zealand governments have announced emergency evacuations of their citizens. The violence, which has been triggered by controversial electoral reforms passed in Paris, has prompted immediate action to ensure the safety of their nationals.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that Australia had received clearance from French authorities to conduct two evacuation flights. These flights aim to evacuate citizens and other tourists from New Caledonia, where the unrest has escalated. Wong mentioned on social media platform X that further flights are being arranged. The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs reported that approximately 300 Australians are currently in New Caledonia.
Similarly, New Zealand is mobilizing efforts to bring its citizens home. Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters announced that the first evacuation flight from Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia, would take place on Tuesday. This flight is part of a series of planned operations to evacuate New Zealand nationals. Peters emphasized the urgency of the situation, acknowledging the difficult conditions faced by New Zealanders in New Caledonia.
The violence in New Caledonia, which has resulted in at least six deaths and hundreds of injuries, began last week following the approval of electoral reforms by the French legislature. These reforms include a provision allowing residents who have lived in New Caledonia for ten years to vote in provincial elections. Opponents of the reform fear it will disproportionately benefit pro-France politicians and further marginalize the indigenous Kanak population.
In response to the unrest, France has deployed over a thousand security personnel to New Caledonia, with additional reinforcements expected. A curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. has been imposed as authorities attempt to restore order. The violence has led to armed clashes, looting, arson, and extensive property damage in parts of Noumea, transforming some areas into no-go zones.
The tensions in New Caledonia are rooted in long-standing conflicts between the indigenous Kanaks, who seek independence, and the descendants of colonizers who prefer to remain part of France. The recent electoral reforms have reignited these tensions, leading to the current wave of violence and unrest.
