New Caledonia tribunal orders France to pay €28 million over 2024 riots

New Caledonia’s administrative tribunal has ruled that the French State failed to provide a “reasonable level of security” during the civil unrest that hit the territory in May 2024.

The ruling came after insurance company Allianz brought a claim on behalf of 14 clients, citing the State’s failure to maintain public order in the industrial zone and the Kenu In shopping complex in Dumbéa, near Nouméa, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The tribunal found that the French authorities had received “multiple,” “significant,” and “converging” warnings of a likely insurrection in the weeks before the riots. French High Commissioner Louis Le Franc had requested additional law enforcement staff, but the State took no action in time.

As a result, the security forces present—around 600 officers—were heavily outnumbered, and reinforcements from Paris only arrived after the unrest had begun. Current staffing now exceeds 2,500.

The riots, sparked by protests against a proposed constitutional reform affecting the indigenous Kanak population, began on May 13, 2024 and escalated into widespread violence, leaving 14 dead, hundreds injured, and causing extensive looting and property damage, estimated at €2.2 billion. The Kenu In shopping zone, including several car dealerships, was among the hardest hit.

The tribunal ruled that the French State is liable for Allianz’s claims and ordered compensation of 3,356,231,397 CFP (€28.14 million). The tribunal noted the State “committed a fault” despite having “sufficient prior notice” to deploy adequate security.

Reports later revealed that the 2024 Olympic Games' priorities in France left the territory with insufficient protection.

Several insurers have since removed “riots” coverage from contracts in New Caledonia. The French government has not indicated whether it will appeal the ruling.

By Aghakazim Guliyev