New Caledonia: Thousands gather for anti-independence event in Noumea July 20

Event

On Monday, July 20, approximately 8000 people attended a planned event in Noumea in support of the territory's attachment to France. According to media sources, the Loyalists, a group of six anti-independence parties which have joined to campaign against independence, organized the event in a park. The well-attended event comes ahead of the independence referendum vote scheduled to be held on October 4.

Further events and rallies leading up to the referendum vote are possible in the medium term.  

Advice

Individuals in New Caledonia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid any demonstration, protest, or mass gathering, and to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.