New Caledonia: Nationwide ban on alcohol to preserve public order

Written By Paul Prouse

On 18 June, the New Caledonia High Commission banned the sale and consumption of alcohol from 20-22 June 2025. The nationwide ban is expected to take effect one day before the Fête de la Musique, occurring during the weekend of 21-22 June. The High Commission referred to recent public disorders and public drunkenness in Noumea as reasons for the ban ahead of the large gathering.


Assessment: The ban is a measure to curb public disorder resulting from intoxication that has arisen sporadically during the current political tensions. There may be violations, but large-scale rioting is unlikely to occur.

Sources: “La vente d’alcool interdite sur l’ensemble du territoire calédonien du 20 au 22 juin,” La 1ère (Franceinfo), June 19, 2025; “ARRETE No  91/HC/CAB/BSI du 18 juin 2025 portant restriction exceptionnelle de la vente de boissons alcooliques et fermentées à emporter sur le territoire de la Nouvelle-Calédonie,” Haut-Commissariat De La République en Nouvelle-Calédonie, June 18, 2025.

Paul Prouse
Previous

Solomon Islands: China almost certain to continue to increase influence efforts in Malaita Province
Next

Fiji: Investigation into senior politicians highly likely to prevent constitutional reforms for remainder of Government’s term