The upheaval was sparked when France passed legislation that would expand the privilege of voting in local elections to all citizens who've lived in New Caledonia for more than 10 years. The territory's pro-independence factions see that move as a deliberate effort to weaken the power of the indigenous Kanaks.
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But the more obvious reality is that the territory has large wealth disparities between those of native and European descent. The French government has invited proponents and opponents of independence to talks in Paris, in what could signal the new voting law could be suspended.
Also
New Caledonia? McHales Navy!
