In April 2024, a protest organized by the Front de libération nationale kanak et socialiste against the expansion of the electoral body for the upcoming provincial elections in New Caledonia took place in Noumea. The government has accused the independence movements in New Caledonia, French Polynesia, and Guyana of being influenced by the wealthy oil dictatorship of Ilham Aliev from Azerbaijan. The Tavini huiraatira party in French Polynesia, which has been in power since May 2023, signed a memorandum with an organization created by the Azerbaijan regime against “French colonialism.” This partnership has been criticized by loyalists in Noumea and even within the independence movement itself.
The French government has expressed concerns about Azerbaijan’s involvement in New Caledonia, particularly in relation to some independent movements and figures. The signing of an agreement for sports and cultural cooperation between the New Caledonia Congress, predominantly independentist, and the Azerbaijani Parliament has caused controversy. The initiative, aimed at defending the cause internationally, has been labeled as “shameful” by loyalists in Noumea and has sparked criticism from within the independence movement. This engagement with Azerbaijan is seen as an attempt to use the New Caledonia issue against France.
The Front de libération nationale kanak et socialiste (FLNKS) has historical international ties with former colonies such as Vietnam and Libya. Other overseas independence movements have also aligned themselves with European counterparts, like the Catalans, and participate in regional seminars of the United Nations Committee on Decolonization in countries with limited democracy. French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has twice represented France’s position at the UN committee. In addition, politicians like the Guyanese communist deputy Jean-Victor Castor have faced criticism for their ties to Azerbaijan, with Castor defending his participation in international events.
The relationship between the independence movements in overseas French territories and foreign governments like Azerbaijan has raised concerns about potential interference and the motives behind such alliances. The French government views these partnerships as opportunistic and aimed at furthering the agendas of foreign powers against France, particularly in the context of international dynamics between France, Azerbaijan, and Armenia. The involvement of overseas independence movements with countries known for human rights abuses and authoritarian regimes has led to tensions within these territories and criticisms from various political factions.
The situation in New Caledonia reflects broader issues of international relations, decolonization efforts, and political alliances in overseas territories. The debate surrounding the influence of countries like Azerbaijan on independence movements highlights the complexities of geopolitics and the challenges faced by smaller territories in navigating relations with powerful actors. The actions of politicians like Jean-Victor Castor in engaging with foreign governments demonstrate the delicate balance between pursuing independence goals and managing external relationships. The tensions between loyalty to France and aspirations for self-determination continue to shape the political landscape in territories like New Caledonia.
