New Caledonia's pro-independence group rejects Bougival agreement

The Kanak Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS), New Caledonia’s main pro-independence alliance, confirmed on August 13 its rejection of the Bougival Agreement, signed in early July with the French state and non-independence representatives.

The decision was taken at an extraordinary FLNKS congress on August 9 and publicly affirmed at a press conference in Noumea. Dominique Fochi, secretary-general of the Caledonian Union and member of the FLNKS political bureau, said the movement “formally rejects the draft Bougival agreement, due to its incompatibility with the foundations and achievements of our struggle,” Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

The Bougival text proposes the creation of a “State of New Caledonia” and a Caledonian nationality, along with the potential transfer of sovereign powers including currency, justice, and policing. However, it does not provide for a new independence referendum, triggering widespread opposition among pro-independence groups.

FLNKS leader Christian Tein criticised the agreement as “a forced agreement proposed by Macron.” According to sources, the outcome of the congress was largely expected, as all parties and unions within the FLNKS had already voiced opposition to the agreement.

The Bougival Agreement, signed on July 12 after ten days of negotiations overseen by French Minister for Overseas Territories Manuel Valls, envisions the creation of a New Caledonian state within France and grants greater autonomy in areas such as foreign affairs.

However, the agreement is not yet final. Its implementation requires multiple legal steps, including the passage of basic laws in both Paris and Noumea, a joint sitting of the French Parliament, and a referendum of New Caledonian citizens, tentatively scheduled for February 2026.

By Sabina Mammadli