30 Oct 2018 | 11:33 AM UTC
New Caledonia: General strike from Oct. 31 ahead of Nov. 4 referendum /update 2
Indefinite general strike held from October 31 ahead of the independence referendum on November 4; avoid all gatherings
Event
A referendum will be held throughout New Caledonia on Sunday, November 4, to determine whether the territory assumes full sovereignty and become independent from France. According to the latest polls, the motion to oppose independence has a significant lead. The electoral campaign has thus far been uneventful and peaceful. Additional security forces have will be deployed to secure the vote. Localized protests and scuffles in the aftermath of the referendum cannot be ruled out.
Furthermore, an indefinite territory-wide general strike called for by the CSTC-FO labor union is set to begin on October 31; associated gatherings are planned outside of the government building. Disruptions to businesses and transportation can be expected.
Finally, French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is set to travel to the capital Nouméa on November 5; protests surrounding his visit are to be anticipated.
Context
The referendum is being organized as per the 1998 Nouméa Accord.
Advice
Individuals in New Caledonia are advised to keep abreast of the sociopolitical climate and avoid all protests and political rallies as a precaution.
