New Caledonia to Become a New State within the French Republic

France has announced a historic accord with its South Pacific overseas territory, New Caledonia, proposing its declaration as a new state within the French Republic.

Key Points

• New State Creation: The 13-page accord proposes the creation of a “State of New Caledonia” which will be inscribed within the French constitution.
• Dual Nationality: The deal calls for the creation of a “Caledonian nationality” that will exist alongside French nationality.
• Economic and Financial Recovery: The agreement includes an economic and financial recovery pact, specifically mentioning a renewal of the territory’s nickel processing capabilities.
• Approval Process:
  • The accord, hailed as historic by French President Emmanuel Macron, still requires final approval in New Caledonia.
  • It may face a vote by New Caledonians in February.
• Historical Context:
  • France colonized the Pacific archipelago in the 1850s.
  • New Caledonia became an overseas territory after World War II.
  • French citizenship was granted to all Kanaks (indigenous people of New Caledonia) in 1957.
  • The last independence referendum in New Caledonia was was held in 2021.

(Source: AIR)