New Caledonia: Traffic curbs planned for April 13 rallies in Noumea as additional territorywide protests remain likely through at least April /update 1

Pro-independence groups will likely continue protesting across New Caledonia through at least April to denounce proposed constitutional and electoral reforms that will expand voting rights to long-term residents. The Field Action Coordination Unit (Cellule de coordination des actions de terrain, CCAT) will rally in Noumea's Place de la Paix from 07:00 April 13, while a counterprotest will occur in the Port Moselle area from 08:00 the same day. A few thousand people are likely to join pro-independence protests. Authorities have announced tight security and parking restrictions along Austerlitz, Clemenceau, Foch, Mangin, and Sebastopol streets, and the Carre Rolland area for April 13.

Activists have recently held related demonstrations in downtown Noumea and near the Saint-Michel barracks in Mont-Dore, prompting minor clashes and significant localized traffic disruptions. Popular gathering sites include government buildings like the Congress of New Caledonia and the High Commission of the Republic offices, public squares, barracks, and thoroughfares. Thousands of people may join rallies in Noumea.

Authorities will almost certainly monitor gatherings and may use force to disperse overly unruly crowds. Further clashes between police and activists are possible; altercations between rival groups are possible. Localized transport disruptions are likely during protests; rerouting of public bus services may occur during well-attended marches. Localized business disruptions are possible.