FORGOTTEN HISTORY: 2 - Caught on Camera

Key dates in New Caledonia’s history

The French overseas territory of New Caledonia in the Pacific Ocean has a turbulent history. Here's a timeline of the events that have shaped the former colony.

Radio France Internationale · May 20, 2024

French forces launch 'major operation' to open route to New Caledonia's restive capital

French forces launched a "major operation" on Sunday to regain control of a road linking New Caledonia's capital Noumea to the main international airport, after a sixth night of violent unrest.

France 24 · May 19, 2024

Colonial past haunts latest New Caledonia crisis

Protests against a French government plan to impose new voting rules on New Caledonia have spiralled into the deadliest violence on the French Pacific territory since the 1980s. The unrest has exposed divisions between indigenous inhabitants, descendants of colonisers and newcomers to the overseas archipelago.

France 24 · May 16, 2024

New Caledonia's independence party considers expansion of electorate

Separatists in the French overseas territory of New Caledonia said they would be open to discussing the possible enlargement of the electorate for the provincial election of 2024, according to the French interior minister. It has been one of the sticking points in the discussions on the future status of…

Radio France Internationale · Jun 5, 2023

Why are talks between Paris and New Caledonia’s rival groups deadlocked?

The French government is trying to renew dialogue between New Caledonia’s pro and anti-independence groups. Negotiations broke down after a third referendum in 2021 rejected full sovereignty for the Pacific Ocean island group.

Radio France Internationale · Apr 16, 2023

Paris talks on New Caledonia's future will 'avoid return to violence'

Supporters and opponents of independence in New Caledonia – whose future status must be negotiated with the French government – are expected to travel to Paris next month for talks.

Radio France Internationale · Mar 6, 2023

French minister back in New Caledonia to work on territory's future status

France's Interior and Overseas Minister, Gerald Darmanin, has returned to New Caledonia to resume talks on the Pacific territory's future status after it voted to remain French in a third and final referendum at the end of 2021. However, the pro-independence FLNKS movement refuses to recognise the result.

Radio France Internationale · Mar 4, 2023