New Caledonia Country Report

New Caledonia is under a state of emergency effective May 15 due to violent protests over a proposed expansion of voting rights. Armed clashes have resulted in fatalities, arrests, major roadblocks, airport closures, and curfews. Protests are concentrated in the Greater Noumea region, prompting multiple countries to advise heightened caution when traveling to Noumea. Disruptions caused by additional protests and related violence, as well as security measures are likely in the coming weeks.

Located in the South Pacific Ocean, New Caledonia is a French territory that is administered as a special collectivity. Ties to France ensure a high level of political stability although there have historically been tensions between the indigenous Melanesian community, known as Kanaks, and the European population which have occasionally involved violent unrest. Tensions between Kanak groups and the European population have calmed in recent years but protests over related issues are still held with some frequency, although the issue generally does not affect foreign travelers.

The communal tensions in the territory have led to widespread calls for independence from within the Kanak community but there has been limited support for such a move within the territories European population and other ethnic groups. A referendum on independence held in November 2018 saw higher than expected support for breaking from France but a majority voted to remain a French territory.

The archipelago is one of the largest economies in the Melanesia sub-region, driven by significant mineral resources, particularly nickel, as well as financial support from France. The territory also boasts a flourishing tourism industry and good infrastructure, which are conducive to the limited investment opportunities that exist within the islands. Primary risks facing foreign travelers in New Caledonia are from crime, unrest and road traffic collisions as well as extreme weather during the cyclone season, although most visits are trouble free.

New Caledonia is under a state of emergency effective May 15 due to fatal clashes and rioting over proposed expansion of voting rights. Violent demonstrations centered around Greater Noumea has prompted business closures, curfews, widespread air, ground, and maritime transport disruptions, as well as travel advisories recommending a high degree of caution if traveling to Noumea. Further disruptive protests and security measures including expanded curfews are likely in the coming weeks.

Generally, outbreaks of civil and labor unrest occur periodically, stemming primarily from socio-economic grievances, friction among the various communities and developments pertaining to the territory’s sovereignty. Demonstrations can turn violent quickly and involve blockades of major roads and transport hubs.

The threat of armed conflict remains limited, although tensions over independence have persisted between indigenous tribes and residents of European descent. New Caledonia does not have a history of terrorism and there are no known threats against foreign nationals or interests despite the large presence of western tourists and expatriates in the territory. The French territory has a low crime rate relative to some major cities in metropolitan France, with most reported incidents being non-violent and opportunistic, such as burglaries, vehicle theft, and pickpocketing.

There are no significant safety concerns pertaining to New Caledonia’s aviation industry and the territory complies with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulatory standards. The territory’s road network is generally adequate in urban centers and along major highways, although roads rural areas may be less well maintained. New Caledonia has an extensive and well-connected energy grid and has consistently invested in improving electricity generation capacity, driven by high demands from the mining sector. Most urban areas and developed parts of Grande Terre have adequate internet connectivity, although coverage may be more limited in Northern Province, the Loyalty Islands and other outlying islands.

Located within the seismically active “Pacific Ring of Fire”, New Caledonia is highly susceptible to earthquakes. The territory is also at risk from strong storms and tropical depressions, particularly during the cyclone season that runs between November and April. Changing rain patterns caused by the El Nino and La Nina phenomena have been a concern in New Caledonia, increasing the risks of drought and intense flooding, respectively. The main manmade hazards stem from the territory’s significant mining activities as well as slash-and-burn farming practices which can cause major wildfires.

Various insect-borne diseases are present in New Caledonia, including chikungunya and dengue fever. Vaccines before travel are also required, specifically for yellow fever. Decent-quality medical facilities can be found on the main island; however, healthcare is limited on the outer islands. Access to pharmaceuticals is generally not an issue in the main urban centers, although availability is typically more limited in remote areas and on outlying islands. Access to mental health services is limited. Tap water is generally considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed, however, this can vary between islands.

New Caledonia effectively functions as both an overseas French collectivity and an autonomous territory. While the territory has been largely stable in the past two decades as a result of several peace initiatives to reconcile the island’s indigenous population and those of European descent, the question of independence still remains the most politically salient issue in the territory. Corruption is not generally considered a major concern.