France sends reinforcements to quell violence in New Caledonia

Riots in New Caledonia, the French Pacific territory, subsided slightly on Friday as France enforced a state of emergency amid protests over voting reforms.

Approximately 1,000 security reinforcements were dispatched to quell unrest following clashes, resulting in five deaths, including two police officers, since Monday. Over 60 security personnel were injured, and 214 individuals were arrested.

Additionally, an “air bridge” is being established to bring in reinforcements and essential supplies.

Roots of unrest
The unrest is fueled by a proposed bill allowing residents living in New Caledonia for ten years to vote in provincial elections, which pro-independence leaders fear will dilute the Kanak vote, which makes up about 40% of the South Pacific archipelago’s nearly 300,000 residents.

The economic cost of the riots
With buildings burned, shops looted, and road barricades erected, the riots, centered in the capital Noumea, have resulted in extensive damage to infrastructure and businesses, with an estimated cost of around $217 million, per the New Caledonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.