France grapples with rising calls for independence from colonies
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Several challenges plague these territories, including socioeconomic issues and grievances regarding infrastructure and security services provided by the French administration.
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Smoke rises during protests in Noumea, New Caledonia, Wednesday May 15, 2024 (AP)
The issue of independence is gaining momentum in France's overseas territories, reflecting the historical legacy of colonialism.
These territories, constituting 18% of French land and home to 2.6 million people, are diverse in their political statuses and geographic locations, spread across the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.
Several challenges plague these territories, including socioeconomic issues and grievances regarding infrastructure and security services provided by the French administration.
Consequently, there's a growing demand for increased autonomy and even independence.
New Caledonia
In New Caledonia, situated approximately 17,000 kilometers away from France, tensions escalated over the French government's proposed constitutional reforms, sparking protests from independence supporters.
The reforms aimed to diminish the influence of indigenous people in elections, triggering a month-long wave of demonstrations that led to fatalities.
Read more: France to curb New Caledonia independence protests 'whatever the cost'
French Guiana
French Guiana, located in South America about 7,000 kilometers from France, grapples with security challenges, including undocumented migration and illegal mining.
Despite promises of more autonomy to Corsica, French Guiana's demands for similar treatment have been overlooked, exacerbating discontent.
Guadeloupe and Martinique
The Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, facing security issues and socioeconomic disparities, witnessed protests during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response, France dispatched security forces, reigniting discussions on autonomy.
Martinique seeks autonomy status within France, while Guadeloupe demands greater self-governance.
Mayotte
Mayotte, an island in the Indian Ocean with severe water shortages and security concerns, faced citizenship restrictions targeting immigrants.
The French government's intervention highlighted the island's precarious living conditions, exacerbated by a cholera outbreak.
Read more: France deprives Muslim-majority Mayotte of birthright citizenship
French Polynesia
French Polynesia, grappling with the aftermath of French nuclear tests, witnessed a pro-independence party's victory in recent elections.
However, the French government insists on economic self-sufficiency before considering political independence.
Corsica
Corsica, seeking unique autonomy within France, reached an agreement after negotiations. However, this progress contrasts with the challenges faced by other territories, underscoring disparities in France's approach to autonomy.
Macron's Declining Support Overseas
President Macron's electoral support in overseas territories waned in the 2022 elections, with far-right candidate Marine Le Pen gaining ground.
This shift reflects growing disillusionment with Macron's administration and heightened calls for autonomy and independence across French territories worldwide.
