BLUF
New Caledonia voted to stay part of France; however, indigenous Caledonians (Kanaks) are not happy that the referendum was held at this time despite the original agreement.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