French repressive policies in New Caledonia have ‘betrayed’ Kanak hopes

David Robie also blogs at Café Pacific

Note: Delayed posting due to connection issues.

Indigenous Kanaks in Kanaky New Caledonia sprang into revolt last month in response to moves by the colonial power France to undermine moves towards independence in the Pacific territory.

Asia Pacific Report editor David Robie spoke to the Green Left Show recently backgrounding the issues involved as the unrest continues.

The pro-independence FLNKS (Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front) postponed its annual congress last weekend as political groups have launched campaigning for the French snap election on June 30 and July 7.

More than a quarter of a million protesters took part in demonstrations against the threat of a far-right government in France. The controversial constitutional electoral change that provoked the rioting in New Caledonia last month has been suspended, but not withdrawn.

Interviewer: Alex Bainbridge of Green LeftJournalist: Dr David Robie, editor of Asia Pacific Report and deputy chair of Asia Pacific Media NetworkProgramme: 28min Green Left Show broadcast: 27 May 2024