Why New Caledonia's future is in limbo even though the overwhelming majority voted to stay with France

Summary

This ABC article makes the following points:

• As per an agreement, this is the third time that New Caledonians have voted to remain a territory of France. See THE NOUMÉA ACCORD
• The  Indigenous New Caledonians the Kanaks wanted the vote to be cancelled because of Covid related deaths and the desire to maintain a tradtional period of mourning.
• The majority of Kanaks boycotted this third referendum.
• France as per the original agreement went ahead with the referendum.
• Pro-independence groups are refusing to cooperate with France.
• This vote still demonstrates that there are deep divides in New Caledonia society.
• France sent in extra police and soldiers during the election, but they were not needed.
• Kanaks claim that major inequalities exist between Kanak and non-Indigenous New Caledonians. 

See previous Runway posts on this topic:

• New Caledonia votes to stay with France, but it’s a hollow victory that will only ratchet up tensions
• No’ vote in New Caledonia independence referendum a pyrrhic victory for loyalists
• New Caledonia eyes final vote on independence

References

• Dec 2021 The Conversation Why New Caledonia’s final independence vote could lead to instability and tarnish France’s image in the region
• Dec 2021 Reuters New Caledonia rejects independence in final vote amid boycott
• Dec 2021 NBC News New Caledonia votes to stay in France amid boycott by separatists
• Dec 2021 The Guardian Empty polling stations and solemn streets: New Caledonia referendum—in pictures
• Dec 2021 FT New Caledonia votes No to independence from France
• Dec 2021   THE GUARDIAN Covid, mourning and the fear of violence: New Caledonia prepares for blighted independence vote 
• Dec 2021 RNZ News Paris delighted at New Caledonia result, but Kanaks dismiss it 
• Dec 2021 THE GUARDIAN Anti-independence ads accused of ‘profound racism’ against indigenous New Caledonians in court action