New Caledonia: Authorities enforcing overnight curfews as of May 15 amid further violent protests territorywide /update 4

Authorities are imposing a daily overnight 18:00-06:00 curfew as of May 15 due to ongoing territorywide violent unrest. The curfew started May 14 and will almost certainly see extensions until protests end. Other active security restrictions include a ban on unauthorized public gatherings, the sale of alcohol, and the transport of weapons. The demonstrations began May 13 after the French parliament approved proposed constitutional and electoral reforms to expand voting rights to long-term residents. Arson, looting, rioting, and clashes have injured over 100 police officers and led to at least 200 arrests; the action has disrupted air, ground, and maritime transport. Officials in Australia and New Zealand are advising a high degree of caution when traveling to Noumea; other countries may revise their travel advisories if significant violence recurs. Further pro-independence protests and related violence are likely in the coming days.

Significant transport disruptions are occurring. The La Tontouta International Airport (NOU) is closed through at least May 16. Aircalin (SB) and Air Caledonie (TY) carriers have canceled flights through May 15, with extensions likely. The Taneo and Rai bus networks have ceased operations, while blockades at the Grand Warf on the Isle of Pines have prompted the suspension of commercial ferries between Noumea and the Isle of Pines. The emergency maritime shuttle system between Nouméa and Vallon-Dore is also suspended indefinitely. Protester and/or police roadblocks continue along major roads in several locations, including Dumbea, La Conception, Mont-Dore, Noumea, and Saint-Louis.

At least 30 business premises, including shops and factories, have faced looting and arson attacks, resulting in damage to property and vehicles. Local media also note long queues for essential items such as food, fuel, and medicine for stockpiling the amid closure of some stores and gas stations, potentially prompting artificial shortages in the coming days. Precautionary business closures, especially in Noumea, cannot be ruled out due to the threat of protest violence and a potential increase in opportunistic crime. Banks and educational institutes are also facing recurrent and/or limited closures.

Additional protests are likely across New Caledonia, especially in downtown Noumea and near military barracks across the territory. Popular gathering sites include government buildings like the Congress of New Caledonia and the High Commission of the Republic offices, public squares, and thoroughfares. Officials have deployed additional police to control violence; military deployment is possible in the coming days. Reports indicate the use of firearms by both protesters and security forces, sustaining the risk of further violent altercations. Security forces may use live ammunition/batons/tear gas/water cannons to disperse unruly crowds.