France had promised to send troops to New Caledonia after a state of emergency was declared in the French Island Territory amid violent mass riots — triggered by Paris-backed changes to local voting rights.

The French government has deployed military units to New Caledonia amid continuing civil unrest in the French South Pacific territory. The troops will back up police efforts to secure ports and the main airport in the capital, as declared by French President Emmanuel Macron during a state of emergency.

The unrest was sparked by a constitutional amendment that granted voting rights to French citizens living in New Caledonia for at least 10 years, leading to clashes and violence in the region.

New Caledonia’s significance lies in its natural wealth, strategic location in the Indo-Pacific region, and its military presence aiding France’s ambitions to boost influence. Macron’s reputation in former African colonies also plays a role in the unfolding crisis.

The future of New Caledonia remains uncertain, with local elections looming and the need for a resolution to the current turmoil.