New Caledonia: Tensions, tight security, and disruptions likely to persist territorywide through late May /update 7

Violent protests, heightened security measures, and associated disruptions will likely persist in New Caledonia through at least late May. As of May 21, reports indicate that demonstrators have reestablished certain roadblocks previously dismantled by security forces during a large-scale operation to secure and clear roads of debris that started early May 19 along the 60km (38 mile) stretch of Route Territoriale 1 (RT1) highway from Noumea to La Tontouta International Airport (NOU). Violent incidents, including acts of arson and widespread looting, persist in parts of Greater Noumea, including Dumbea, Noumea, and Paita; areas most affected include the Magenta District within Noumea. As of May 21, the NOU remains closed; several foreign governments, including Australia and New Zealand, have begun repatriation of their citizens from New Caledonia through chartered military aircraft. While several pharmacies and at least 21 large supermarkets have gradually reopened, banks and schools across the territory remain closed. Demonstrations began on May 13 after the French Parliament approved constitutional and electoral reforms to expand voting rights to long-term residents. Incidents of widespread arson, looting, rioting, and clashes have since occurred. The violence has left at least six people killed, over 100 security personnel injured, and 270 people arrested.

Authorities continue to impose a nightly 18:00-06:00 curfew, which includes additional restrictions such as a ban on unauthorized public gatherings, the sale of alcohol, and the transportation of weapons. Since 05:00 May 16, the government has implemented a territory-wide state of emergency, slated to last 12 days and subject to further extensions. Under such orders, officials typically deploy additional reinforcement, close public spaces, including places of worship, conduct administrative searches, block websites deemed a security risk, and conduct residential subpoenas. Officials have deployed at least 2,300 security personnel across the territory to restore order. The French government has deployed the army to secure access to ports and the NOU. Additionally, officials have banned the TikTok social media app. Officials of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States advise their citizens to reconsider travel to all or part of the island; other countries may revise their travel advisories if significant violence persists.

Further pro-independence protests and related violence will likely continue despite ongoing security measures. Potential gathering sites include military barracks, government buildings such as the Congress of New Caledonia and the High Commission of the Republic offices, public squares, and thoroughfares. The largest gatherings will probably continue to materialize in downtown Noumea. Well-attended gatherings have previously drawn tens of thousands of participants. 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.

The tensions have caused related disruptions to air, ground, and maritime transport services. All commercial airplanes, including flights operated by Aircalin (SB) and Air Caledonie (TY) carriers, as well as the Taneo and Rai bus operations, remain canceled. While the emergency maritime shuttle system between Boulari, Noumea, and Vallon-Dore has resumed limited operations, commercial ferries between Noumea and the Isle of Pines remain suspended. Protester 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 property and vehicular damage. The unrest has triggered long queues for stockpiling essential items such as food, fuel, and medicine amid the 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 crimes.