The image of New Caledonia as an idyllic, palm-fringed slice of France in the Pacific Ocean has been shattered by an outbreak of violence, undercutting President Emmanuel Macron’s efforts to retain, and even extend, Paris’ influence overseas, reports The Japan Times.
Just over a week into the unrest, Macron made the 17,000-kilometer trip to the archipelago, hoping to restore confidence at a time when China and other powers are eager to press their advantage in the region, especially in resource-rich islands such as these.
Instead, the turbulence — rooted in long-standing economic strain and triggered by contentious new rules to extend the voting population — has developed into a lasting problem for the Élysée.
Even after a state of emergency was lifted last Tuesday, some districts on the outskirts of the capital Nouméa remain all but cut off by makeshift barriers, burnt-out schools are shuttered, while obstructed roads, scarce petrol and a curfew continue to make movement difficult. Hundreds of businesses have been looted, causing as much as €1 billion ($1.1 billion) of damage.
New Caledonia’s nickel mines, vital to employment in this territory of 270,000, were already struggling with low prices and are now barely operating. The visitors who usually flock to beaches along a turquoise coast have been evacuated by military aircraft, while the main airport remains closed.
Even in the most exclusive areas in Nouméa’s south, store supplies are sparse and residents have formed night-watch groups to protect homes and businesses from ongoing arson. Racially tinged exchanges and disinformation fill social media.