New Caledonia airport to remain closed until at least June 2
New Caledonia’s international airport will remain closed until at least next Sunday due to riots over a contested electoral reform, which have resulted in seven deaths. French President Macron visited the island to ease tensions and has paused the reform, but has not fully met pro-independence parties’ demands. Macron stated that he will not make decisions under pressure from violence and could call a special congress or referendum if a deal is not reached. The protesters fear the reform would dilute the votes of indigenous Kanaks, who make up 40% of the population.
