In response to escalating violence in New Caledonia, the Australian military has successfully evacuated 115 passengers on two flights from the French Pacific territory. Additionally, a French government flight is expected to evacuate another 100 stranded passengers on Wednesday, according to Australian Pacific Minister Pat Conroy.
The recent unrest in New Caledonia has resulted in the deaths of six people, including two police officers, and has left hundreds injured amid armed clashes, looting, and arson. The violence erupted on May 13 as the French legislature in Paris debated constitutional amendments related to New Caledonia’s voter lists.
Opponents fear that the proposed changes could favour pro-France politicians and further marginalize the Indigenous Kanak population, who have historically faced segregation and discrimination.
French President Emmanuel Macron is set to visit New Caledonia on Thursday. His visit comes amid heightened scrutiny over his handling of France’s colonial legacy and the ongoing independence aspirations of the Indigenous people.
Minister Conroy detailed the evacuation efforts, stating that 84 of the passengers flown out on two Royal Australian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft late Tuesday were Australian citizens. The flights departed from the capital, Noumea, and landed in Brisbane, Australia.
The nationalities of the remaining 31 passengers were not disclosed, but Conroy noted that Australia has reciprocal evacuation agreements with Canada and Japan to assist their citizens during crises.
More than 200 Australians have registered with Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs to leave New Caledonia, where a 12-day state of emergency has been declared. “We’ve prioritized the elderly, the pregnant, and the most vulnerable,” Conroy told Nine Network television. He emphasized ongoing cooperation with the French government to ensure the safe evacuation of all Australians who wish to leave the territory.
Conroy also mentioned that additional French evacuation flights to Brisbane are planned for Wednesday.