Polls open for New Caledonia’s first provincial elections since 2019

Polls have opened in New Caledonia for its first provincial elections since 2019, with around 2,500 police officers deployed to secure polling stations. About 192,000 voters will select 76 councillors for three provincial assemblies, which will influence future discussions with France regarding the territory’s status. This election follows previous unrest between Indigenous Kanaks and French loyalists and comes after the pro-independence group rejected a proposed stability deal with France.

Want More Context? 🔎