The Human Face of the Pacific: New Caledonia. A Land in Search of Itself

Directed by Oliver Howes

A Six-Part Series

New Caledonia is a country divided. The largest community is Melanesians, self-styled “Kanaks” who make up 43 per cent of the population. They want independence from France. On the other side are the French and locally born Caledonians, supported by immigrant Polynesians, who want to retain links with France. This film outlines the political conflict that has led to tension and violence over the years. It takes a look at two politicians representing each side and reveals something of the Kanaks, with their tribal social structure, and the Caledonian French, who are more concerned with economic progress.