Title Document Outlining Proposed Dual Citizenship and Multiple Passports for New State Development, Signed in Paris
In a significant turn of events, New Caledonia, a French overseas territory, is on the brink of becoming a "state" within the French Republic, with a unique political and legal framework that introduces a Caledonian nationality alongside French nationality [1][2][4]. This historic 13-page deal, which emerged from intense negotiations between pro- and anti-independence parties, is aimed at moving New Caledonia beyond past violent conflicts and tensions, following the 2024 riots related to electoral reforms impacting Indigenous Kanaks [3][4].
French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the deal as historic and emphasized the need for stability and respect to build a shared future [3]. The agreement, which provides for the creation of a new, partially independent state, has raised concerns about the stability of the newly established state due to the unrest that occurred during the negotiations [6].
The negotiations, which lasted for ten days, were overseen by French President Emmanuel Macron and Overseas Minister Manuel Valls [2]. The agreement will need to be approved by the French parliament in Versailles later in 2025 before a corresponding referendum can be held in New Caledonia in February 2026 [4][5].
Among the Indigenous Kanaks, who seek full independence, the deal stops short of their aspirations. However, some, like Kanak lawmaker Emmanuel Tjibaou, view it as a "structured, progressive, legally regulated and politically legitimate path" that could break the cycle of violence [1].
The French Parliament has described the deal as of "historic significance" and a unique organization of New Caledonia inside France's national framework [4][5]. The new state may be granted the power to conduct its own foreign policy, adding another layer of complexity to the arrangement [7].
The agreement on the institutional setup of New Caledonia is considered "historic" [8], marking a significant yet complex compromise between independence aspirations and continued French sovereignty [1][3][4][5].
- The agreement on the institutional setup of New Caledonia, a unique political and legal framework, is aimed at moving the territory beyond its history of war-and-conflicts, particularly the 2024 riots related to electoral reforms.
- The negotiations and approval of this policy-and-legislation, which provides for the creation of a new, partially independent state, have raised concerns about the stability of the state and the potential complications in foreign policy and general-news associated with the new arrangement.
