NEW CALEDONIA

21st May, 2024 Geography

NEW CALEDONIA

Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/europe/france-declares-state-of-emergency-in-new-caledonia-after-deadly-riots/articleshow/110155859.cms

Context: French forces cleared roadblocks in New Caledonia after unrest erupted over a constitutional amendment that indigenous Kanak people see as disenfranchising them.

Details

The situation in New Caledonia has escalated into violence, prompting French forces to intervene and clear dozens of barricades that had been obstructing the main road connecting the airport to the capital, Noumea.

Unrest in New Caledonia

Demonstrations erupted following the introduction of a contentious constitutional amendment, which sparked anger among the Indigenous Kanak people. They erected around 60 barricades along the 60 km road leading to the airport.
To address the escalating crisis, France imposed a state of emergency on May 16 and deployed troops to key locations, including ports and the international airport. TikTok was also banned amid concerns about its role in fueling unrest.
The protests turned violent, resulting in casualties on both sides. Six individuals lost their lives, including members of the Kanak community and police officers.

About New Caledonia

New Caledonia is a French territory located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, east of Australia.
Grande Terre is the largest landmass in the archipelago.
The island's elongated shape gives it a distinct cigar-like appearance on maps.
The island's central region is dominated by rugged mountain ranges, mainly consisting of metamorphic rock formations.
Mount Panié is the highest peak in New Caledonia at 1,628 meters.
Weathering of the island's metamorphic and sedimentary rocks has resulted in the formation of unique red soils. These soils are rich in valuable minerals such as nickel, chrome, and cobalt, which have significant economic importance for the region.
The Diahot River is the longest river in New Caledonia.