Deadly Violence in New Caledonia Over Proposed Constitutional Change

SOURCE www.npr.org
Deadly violence erupts in New Caledonia over proposed change to France's Constitution giving voting rights to non-Indigenous residents, resulting in at least four deaths and a state of emergency declared.

Key Points

  • France declared a state of emergency for at least 12 days.
  • The move to unfreeze voting lists has sparked outrage among Kanak communities.
  • Political tensions between pro-independence Kanak communities and French inhabitants have simmered for years.

Pros

  • Proposed change aims to give voting rights to an increasing number of non-Indigenous residents in New Caledonia.

Cons

  • Violence has resulted in at least four deaths, including a police officer.
  • Stores and cars have been looted and burned, with citizens clashing with riot police.