Overview
France has lifted the ban on the TikTok app in New Caledonia, two weeks after it was imposed to curb the spread of rioting. The decision follows the end of a state of emergency that had been declared due to violent protests.
End of State of Emergency
- Background: The state of emergency was declared due to violent protests by the indigenous Kanaks over planned electoral reforms.
- Casualties: Seven people have been killed and hundreds injured in the unrest.
- Lifting the Ban: The French government decided not to extend the state of emergency on Tuesday.
Role of TikTok
- Ban Details: The TikTok app was banned because it was believed to be spreading disinformation and inciting violence.
- Workaround: Many users bypassed the ban using VPNs.
- Lifting the Ban: The French high commission in Nouméa stated that the presence of police and gendarmes helped restore calm, allowing the ban to be lifted.
Government Actions
- Security Measures: France deployed 3,500 security forces to maintain order.
- Airport Closure: The international airport in Nouméa remains closed until at least Sunday.
- Macron’s Visit: President Emmanuel Macron visited New Caledonia, promising not to force through any reforms to the voting system.
Ongoing Protests and Political Context
- Protests Continue: Despite the end of the state of emergency, protests have not completely stopped, and an overnight curfew remains in place.
- Pro-Independence Groups: The main pro-independence group, FLNKS, opposes the proposed voting reforms.
- Proposed Reforms: The French National Assembly proposed granting voting rights to residents who have lived in New Caledonia for 10 years, which has been controversial.
Foreign Interference Concerns
- Accusations: The French government accused Beijing and Azerbaijan of using TikTok to interfere in the crisis.
- Azerbaijan’s Response: Azerbaijan rejected the accusations and accused France of “neo-colonialist policies.”
Impact on Local Population
- Victims: Among those killed in the unrest were two gendarmes and relatives of French World Cup winner Christian Karambeu.
- Investigations: Calls for investigations into the deaths have been made.
Future Prospects
- Hope for Calm: The French government hopes that lifting the state of emergency will further calm tensions and lead to the removal of roadblocks, enabling productive talks.
- Protesters’ Stance: The pro-independence group CCAT has indicated that they are not ready to end their protests.
Conclusion
The lifting of the TikTok ban marks a step towards normalcy in New Caledonia, but the underlying political tensions and demands for electoral reforms continue to pose challenges. The French government remains engaged in efforts to address these issues while maintaining peace and order in the region.
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