Policeman Kills Protester in New Caledonia Amid Fragile Situation

In New Caledonia, a French Pacific territory, tension escalates as a policeman kills a man after being attacked by protesters, adding to the violence following President Emmanuel Macron’s visit aimed at addressing a political crisis over voting reform. Despite Macron’s efforts to calm the situation, which has claimed seven lives, the region remains on edge. French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal describes the situation as “extremely fragile” and emphasizes the need for order. Legal proceedings begin against the officer involved in the shooting, amidst a state of emergency with additional police and military reinforcements. The unrest, the worst in four decades, stems from a contested voting reform plan, with indigenous Kanaks feeling marginalized. Macron seeks a peaceful resolution and further dialogue on the reforms, while separatists show readiness to continue protests, highlighting the deep-rooted tensions over autonomy and independence in New Caledonia.