Emmanuel Macron attended a customary ceremony in his honor in Touho, in northern New Caledonia, on July 25, 2023. The President’s aim is to calm tensions in the region, particularly between loyalist supporters and pro-independence opponents of the proposed electoral reform in New Caledonia. Macron informed local lawmakers that the Congress scheduled to take place in Versailles to finalize the constitutional reform will be postponed. This delay is intended to allow for further discussions between the opposing factions.
The proposed reform, which would extend voting rights to all citizens residing in New Caledonia for at least ten years, is supported by loyalists but vehemently opposed by the pro-independence movement. They argue that the current provisions, which restrict voting to natives and long-term residents before 1998, are essential to prevent their community from being marginalized. President Macron could have convened the Congress by the end of May, but chose not to do so immediately, asserting his authority over the situation and allowing for more time for dialogue.
The ongoing political impasse in New Caledonia has thwarted attempts to reach a comprehensive agreement on the territory’s future status. Macron has directed the government to call for a meeting in Paris with all key leaders from New Caledonia after the constitutional project is approved by the Assembly. This meeting would focus on two main topics: the future institutions of the territory in connection with France, and addressing the economic challenges exacerbated by the nickel crisis. Efforts to foster dialogue and reach a consensus have so far proved challenging.
In response to the delay in the Congress and the call for negotiations, some sectors in New Caledonia have indicated their willingness to strike. The Union of Kanak and Exploited Workers, a pro-independence union, has called for strikes in the transportation and hospitality industries. There are also threats of disruptions in mining and metallurgical activities. The situation has led to disruptions in services, such as the closure of the Lifou airport and some municipal offices in pro-independence territories. The outcome of these strikes and protests remains uncertain.
The potential impact of these strikes and the overall response to Macron’s initiative remain to be seen. Despite the delay in the Congress and the President’s call for dialogue, the deep divisions in New Caledonia persist, with conflicting views on the proposed electoral reform and the future status of the territory. The complex socioeconomic challenges facing the region, exacerbated by the nickel crisis, further complicate the path to a lasting resolution. Macron’s efforts to facilitate negotiations and address these challenges are critical in navigating the delicate political landscape and fostering unity and stability in New Caledonia.
