BIG: Two years pass since France's crackdown on New Caledonia protests

Two years have passed since the brutal suppression by French authorities of mass protests in New Caledonia aimed at preventing the Kanak people from advancing their struggle for independence.

According to the Baku Initiative Group (BIG) posts on social media, cited by Report, in spring 2024, the French parliament approved a bill providing voting rights in regional elections to individuals who have lived in New Caledonia for more than 10 years.

In response, on May 13, 2024, a demonstration was held in Nouméa, the capital of New Caledonia, against the measure. The local population viewed it as an attempt by Paris to strengthen its influence over the archipelago and hinder its bid for independence.

Amid the protests, French authorities decided to deploy troops to New Caledonia. French authorities used 30 armored vehicles and deployed 3,000 troops against protesters.

"In the result of the use of force by French security forces, 14 people were killed, and a further 3,000 were injured. 243 protesters were arrested," BIG noted.

BIG: Two years pass since France's crackdown on New Caledonia protests