France’s Pacific Territories are watching the election too

Abstract

The results of the first round of the French presidential elections create new uncertainties for the French Pacific, particularly for Australia’s close neighbour New Caledonia, which is facing a critical independence referendum by the end of 2018.

As in past presidential elections, in the two largest French Pacific territories of New Caledonia and French Polynesia, participation rates were low, and those who did vote favoured the mainstream conservative candidate (Fillon), with the far-right Le Pen a close second, and the centre-left Macron a trailing third. This is consistent with historical patterns. Territorians see local issues and personalities as more relevant to them, and many shun national elections. Moreover, large populations in each territory support greater autonomy or even independence from France, and therefore don’t vote in presidential elections. Show more