12-08-2025
New Caledonia's pro-independence groups meet to critisise Bougival Accord
New Caledonia's main independence coalition the Front de Libération Nationale Kanak et Socialiste, or the FLNKS, held an extraordinary Congress meeting over the weekend to debate the new agreement struck with France on the territory's political future.
The Bougival accord as its become known allows for the creation of a New Caledonian state within France, a New Caledonian nationality and greater autonomy in areas like foreign affairs.
While it appears to be supported by many, people are keen to move on from the uncertainty and tension that sparked deadly riots last year.
The supporters of both pro-independence and French loyalist parties have criticised the agreement.
It's also far from a done deal and has to clear several hurdles before becoming a reality including support by both houses of the French parliament and a referendum in New Caledonia, proposed for early next year.
