France in the Pacific

French Polynesia is a pivotal element of France’s strategy in the Pacific – and offers a compelling case study for shared sovereignty within the French Republic.

Across much of the Pacific, votes of no confidence have become a frequently deployed, and increasingly disruptive, tactic.

Much attention has been paid to France’s relationship with New Caledonia in recent months, but France has also been compelled to address its colonial ties with its other great Pacific territory, French Polynesia. 

The island’s future hangs in the balance as internal turmoil dovetails with the paralysis of the French government.

After months of violence, New Caledonia independence groups will turn to the PIF in hopes of buoying their case for self-determination from France.

The first step to resolving the New Caledonia crisis is for France to return to the resolve it demonstrated in the mid-1990s and drastically alter its course – fast. 

While the immediate unrest has paused, Kanaks say that sustainable peace is dependent on their grievances being addressed.

Violence flared on May 13 over the government’s attempt to change voting lists in the French Pacific territory, which Indigenous Kanaks say would marginalize their voices.

In terms of France’s broader Indo-Pacific engagement, the strategic implications of the New Caledonia uprising are profound both for Paris and its Western-aligned allies.

New Delhi and Paris have a lot in common in terms of their strategic perspectives on a free, open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

With Macron's visit to New Caledonia, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea, he has a chance to address France's shaken legitimacy in the Pacific.

France “intends to pursue a cooperative and inclusive approach that respects the sovereignty of all, without following a logic of blocs.”