Vive in a Different France: New Caledonia Part 3
July 31st 2006 23:44
Bonjour tout le monde!
Today’s post is going to look at the interesting demographics of New Caledonia. I promise we’ll move onto the more practical information tomorrow. = )
I said in yesterday’s post that I would explain what (or who) the “Kanaks” are at some time in the future. So, I though I’d do that today. Why not?
The Kanaks are one of the many different cultural groups, who live in New Caledonia. They are the indigenous Melanesians and make up about 44.6% of the population. (This is a statistic taken from the 1996 census results) New Caledonia is quite a multicultural island and many people from other Pacific and Asian nations have moved there, including Indonesians, Polynesians, Vietnamese, Indians, Sri Lankans, Japanese, Chinese and many more! There are also many European immigrants who make up about 34.5% of the population (according to the 1996 census). Another significant group is the Caldoches: white people who have lived in New Caledonia for several generations.
I’m sure you’re wondering why I have written a post about the demographics of New Caledonia. Fair question. The most interesting thing about the country’s demographics is that ethnic balance is a very important issue to the New Caledonians. In fact, many think that this balance could affect New Caledonia’s motivations for independence. Each of the groups are incredibly sensitive about the issue and it often creates tension within the country.
That’s it for today. Short and sweet.
I’ll be looking at New Caledonia’s location, climate and geography tomorrow!
À demain
Melinda
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