France has declared a state of emergency and is deploying its forces to New Caledonia amid mounting unrest in the Pacific archipelago. At least four people were killed in clashes this week. Tensions have been rising as Indigenous Kanak communities protest plans to allow French residents who have lived in New Caledonia for 10 years to vote in provincial elections.

Kanak resident: “We feel oppressed. We are angry. Everything is taking place over there in France. And us, we are wondering: Are we being heard, the Kanak people?”

Some 40% of the population of New Caledonia is Kanak, but the island remains under French rule since its colonization by France in the 19th century. Many young people seek full independence from France.