Why did pro-independence groups boycott the 2021 New Caledonia independence referendum?

Pro-independence groups boycotted the December 12, 2021, independence referendum in New Caledonia primarily due to the French government's refusal to postpone the vote despite significant concerns regarding the timing and fairness of the process.1

The controversy stemmed from several key factors:

• Scheduling Disputes: Pro-independence factions had requested that the final referendum be held in 2022, whereas those favoring continued ties with France insisted on the 2021 date.1
• Impact of COVID-19: A surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths in September 2021 disproportionately affected the indigenous Kanak population, who are largely pro-independence.1
• Cultural Mourning: The pandemic-related deaths hindered the ability of pro-independence groups to campaign effectively, as the situation conflicted with traditional Kanak mourning customs.1

Because the French government rejected calls to delay the referendum, pro-independence groups chose to boycott the vote. Consequently, while 96 percent of those who participated rejected independence, the voter turnout plummeted to approximately 44 percent, leading to widespread questions regarding the legitimacy of the result.1