After deaths in protests for the territory’s independence, the army was sent to contain conflicts
The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, declared a state of emergency on the island of New Caledonia, in the Pacific, this Wednesday (May 15, 2024). The measure was taken in response to violent protests that broke out in the French overseas territory, motivated by disputes over the region’s independence.
The Ministry of the Interior announced the deployment of more than 1,800 police officers to the territory, which is 16,000 km from France. Four people, including a soldier, died in the clashes.
French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal commented on the possibility of talks with separatist representatives. “We will spare no means or efforts to allow the return of order and security to New Caledonia. This is the condition for any dialogue”, stated on your profile on X (formerly Twitter).
Separatism in New Caledonia
New Caledonia has been considered a French overseas territory since 1853. Recently, it has faced increasing tensions, especially after a proposed constitutional change approved by the Senate. The legislation aims to expand the eligibility of French citizens to vote in provincial elections.
In a press release, the French government stated: “All violence is intolerable and will be the subject of a tireless response to guarantee the return of republican order.”
Source: https://www.poder360.com.br/internacional/macron-declara-estado-de-emergencia-na-nova-caledonia/
