Griffith In Asia

On 4 October, New Caledonians will vote in a referendum on their political future. Long term residents of the French Pacific dependency – one of Australia’s closest neighbours – will vote yes or no on independence from France. Most indigenous Kanak support the call for independence and sovereignty, but must gain support from non-Kanak communities who want to retain ties to the French Republic. A previous referendum in 2018 saw 43 per cent support for independence, and since then, debate has polarised over New Caledonia’s future political status. But the 2020 referendum comes at a time of significant economic and social challenge, during the global pandemic. New Caledonia faces changing demand for nickel exports, the loss of international tourism and a rising cost of living for the vulnerable. Hear from leading political and community leaders, to discuss the referendum and future prospects for this Pacific nation. Facilitated by journalist Nic Maclellan, the discussion will be broadcast in English, providing