New Caledonia Holds First Elections Since 2019
New Caledonia held its first regional elections since 2019 on Sunday. New Caledonia is a French territory in the South Pacific.
Voter turnout was 54.42 percent. About 2,500 police officers were at polling stations during the vote.
The elections were planned for 2024 but were delayed three times. Violent unrest caused the delays.
The unrest was over voting rights between indigenous Kanaks and French loyalists. The results will shape who holds power in New Caledonia.
They will also affect talks with France about the territory's future. Independence from France is the key political issue there.
Klear Note — New Caledonia is a French territory in the South Pacific. Independence from France is the main political issue there. Violent unrest over voting rights delayed these elections three times since 2024.
Key Terms 4
- New Caledonia A French-owned island territory in the South Pacific Ocean
- Kanaks The indigenous people of New Caledonia who often support independence
- turnout The percentage of eligible voters who actually voted
- loyalists People who want New Caledonia to stay part of France