The International Liberation Front of French Colonies has issued a statement.
AZERTAC presents the statement:
“Today's uprising in Martinique, following that in Kanaky (New Caledonia), is not accidental. France is responding solely with repression and violence, ignoring the legitimate demands of these two nations. The economies of Martinique and New Caledonia are in decline, with trade revenues being fully appropriated by the colonists. All profits generated by the caldoches in the Pacific and by the békés on the Caribbean coast are funneled into the French state budget through VAT.
The high cost of living and contempt for indigenous people are the two sources of social unrest currently shaking Martinique. This high cost of living is a consequence of extreme food dependency, underdevelopment, low incomes, and persistent colonial poverty. The situation is exacerbated by colonial policies such as land confiscation, a dual court system, and mass youth emigration.
These manifestations of colonialism in Martinique have become unbearable.
In response to the initial peaceful protests, France has resorted to unprecedented violence and continues its repressive measures. The International Liberation Front strongly condemns this outdated method of governance, which reflects the decline of democracy within the colonial system.
The Front believes that the solution lies in a genuine decolonization strategy, focusing on creating an economic system that serves the interests of the people of Martinique and guarantees them a dignified future.
We demand the immediate withdrawal of CRS8 units (security forces deployed from outside), which represent only the interests of the authorities and their supporters, and do not embody Republican values.
The Front demands a democratic resolution to the institutional issues in New Caledonia, as well as to the economic, social, and political challenges faced by both territories.
This must be a genuine step toward self-determination and independence.”