kanak
New Caledonian culture
Quick Summary
The term kanak refers to the indigenous Melanesian people of New Caledonia. This identity is rooted in clan affiliation, family alliances, and specific land rights. The kanak way of life is distinct from the caldoche way of life, which is more integrated into a cash economy. While French is an official language, Kanak also holds special legal recognition, and approximately 30 Melanesian languages are spoken. The Melanesian population constitutes over two-fifths of New Caledonia's total population.1
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