Separatists in New Caledonia continue to block roads despite French attempts to intervene | Global News

New Caledonia’s international airport remains closed as separatists defy French efforts to unblock roads, causing chaos and violence in the Pacific archipelago. The standoff has left six dead, including two gendarmes, and hundreds injured.

French President Emmanuel Macron has deployed 1,000 security forces to restore order in the territory, which has been rocked by unrest over plans to grant voting rights to non-indigenous residents. Despite efforts to dismantle roadblocks, pro-independence activists continue to resist, rebuilding barricades and engaging in violent clashes with authorities.

The situation has led to economic devastation, with businesses looted and set on fire, and the New Caledonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry describing the damage as “catastrophic.” The airport remains closed, leaving tourists stranded and residents unable to travel.

The unrest has sparked debate about the future of New Caledonia, with indigenous Kanak groups opposing the voting reform, which they believe would dilute their political influence. Civil liberties groups have challenged the government’s response, including a ban on TikTok, leading to legal battles in France’s top administrative court.

As the crisis continues, the French government is considering extending the state of emergency and curfew, with tensions escalating between separatists and security forces. The situation remains volatile, with the fate of New Caledonia hanging in the balance as the international community watches closely.