New Caledonia Country Report
Located in the South Pacific, New Caledonia is a French territory administered as a special group. Although there was tension between the native Melanesian community, historically known as the Kanak, and the European population, sometimes with violent riots, relations with France ensured a high level of political stability. Tensions between Kanaks and Europeans have eased in recent years, but although this does not generally affect foreign tourists, protests over related issues still occur frequently. Communal tensions in the region have led to widespread calls for independence from within the Kanak community, but support for such measures among Europeans and other ethnic groups in the region is limited. In the November 2018 independence referendum, support for secession from France exceeded expectations, but a majority voted to remain in France.
The archipelago is one of the largest economies in the Melanesian region, driven by important mineral resources, particularly nickel, and French financial support. The area also has a thriving tourism industry and excellent infrastructure, which contributes to the limited investment opportunities available on the island. Crime, riots, traffic accidents, and extreme weather during hurricane season are the main risks for foreign tourists in New Caledonia, but most visits are good.
Last updated: March 14, 2022
Security
Although independence tensions between native tribes and European populations persist, the risk of armed conflict is limited. New Caledonia has no history of terrorism, and despite the large presence of Western tourists and expatriates in the territory, there are no known threats to foreigners or foreign interests. The French territory has a lower crime rate than some of France’s major metropolitan cities, and most reported incidents are nonviolent and opportunistic, such as robberies, vehicle thefts, and pickpocketing. New Caledonia regularly experiences civil unrest and labor unrest, mainly due to socio-economic grievances, friction between different communities, and changes in territorial governance. Demonstrations can turn violent, and recent unrest has seen major roads blocked and cars attacked.
Last updated: March 14, 2022
Infrastructure
There are no significant safety concerns about New Caledonia’s aviation industry and the territory complies with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulatory standards. The territory’s road network is generally adequate in urban centers and along major highways, although roads in rural areas may be less well maintained. New Caledonia has an extensive and well-connected energy grid and has consistently invested in improving electricity generation capacity, driven by high demands from the mining sector. Most urban areas and developed parts of Grande Terre have adequate internet connectivity, although coverage may be more limited in the Northern Province, the Loyalty Islands, and other outlying islands.
Last update: March 14, 2022
Environment
New Caledonia is located on an active seismic ring of fire and is highly susceptible to earthquakes. The area is also at risk of strong typhoons and tropical cyclones, especially during the hurricane season from November to April. New Caledonia is concerned about changes in rain patterns caused by El Niño and La Niña events, which increase the risk of drought and extreme flooding, respectively. The main anthropogenic risks are caused by large-scale mining activities in the region and slash-and-burn agricultural practices that cause widespread forest fires.
Last updated: March 14, 2022
Health and Medical
Health care in New Caledonia is generally of high quality but is considered expensive. Access to medicine is usually not a problem in major urban centers, but availability is usually more limited in remote areas and remote islands. New Caledonia is home to a variety of insect-borne diseases, including chikungunya, dengue fever, Rift Valley fever, and Ross River fever. Water access is widespread and mostly safe for consumption on Grande Terre, but less so on outlying islands and remote locations.
Last updated: September 7, 2023
Political
New Caledonia functions as both a French overseas group and an autonomous territory. Although the territory has been largely stable over the past two decades due to several peace initiatives aimed at reconciling the island’s indigenous and European populations, the issue of independence remains the territory’s most important political issue. Corruption is generally not considered a major concern.
Last updated: March 14, 2022
