French Overseas Departments

New Caledonia

New Caledonia, a sui generis collectivity, stands out among French territories due to its unique status and cultural makeup. Located between Vanuatu and Australia, it is the largest French territory by area and home to approximately 271,000 people, 41% of whom are indigenous Kanak. The island has seen significant independence movements, with referendums in 2018 and 2020 rejecting independence by narrow margins 1.

One of the complaints about the referendums is that the vote was swayed by the 24% of the population that is of European ancestry who moved there.

--- Gary Arndt

Despite the cancellation of a 2023 referendum, the island remains a focal point for discussions on autonomy and self-governance 1.

   

Southern Lands

The French Southern and Antarctic Lands are a collection of islands in the Indian and Southern Oceans, including Adali Land, the Crozet Islands, and the Kerguelen Islands. These territories have no native populations and are primarily inhabited by a small team of researchers. They serve as a unique example of France's overseas territories, with their primary purpose being scientific research and environmental preservation 1.

The only territory that has the official status of an overseas territory is the French Southern and Antarctic Lands.

--- Gary Arndt

These lands highlight the diverse nature of France's remaining overseas possessions and their varied uses 1.

   

Clipperton

Clipperton Island, an uninhabited coral atoll southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, is one of France's most remote territories. Despite attempts to populate the island, its lack of fresh water and remoteness have made permanent settlement impossible. Today, Clipperton is a nature preserve, occasionally visited by amateur radio operators 1.

There have been historical claims to the island by both the United States and Mexico, but they haven't been pursued recently.

--- Gary Arndt

The island's status as state private property of the French government underscores its unique position among France's overseas territories 1.