Pierre Chanel Tein Tutugoro, the President of the UC–FLNKS and Nationalist Group in New Caledonia’s Congress, has made an urgent appeal for the establishment of a joint facilitation mechanism involving the United Nations (UN) and the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). His call comes against the backdrop of a politically charged environment in New Caledonia, emphasizing the critical need for renewed dialogue to advance decolonization efforts for Kanaky–New Caledonia.
In a letter to vital international entities, including the UN’s Fourth Committee and the Special Committee on Decolonisation, Tutugoro stated that New Caledonia faces a significant political impasse that necessitates immediate global intervention. He referenced the Nouméa Accord of 1998, which laid the groundwork for self-determination, noting that the third referendum conducted on December 12, 2021, took place under unusual and problematic circumstances. This referendum saw minimal participation from the Kanak population, leading to heightened political discord.
Tutugoro criticized recent reforms to the electoral roll by the French government, arguing that such actions undermine the foundational principles of the Nouméa Accord and threaten citizenship rights in New Caledonia. He drew comparisons to the unrest of the 1980s when escalating tensions resulted in extensive human and material losses.
The situation has been further complicated by the rejection of the “Bougival Accord,” signed in Paris in 2025, which Tutugoro described as inadequate for addressing the Kanak people’s aspirations while seeking to maintain New Caledonia’s ties to France with limited power transfers. This rejection, reinforced during the FLNKS extraordinary congress on August 9, 2025, underscores the demand for a more legitimate and inclusive governance structure.
A previous assessment by the Pacific Islands Forum’s Troika Plus Mission revealed concerning trends of political polarization and distrust among communities in New Caledonia. The 54th Pacific Islands Forum also highlighted the pressing need for comprehensive dialogue to tackle these significant challenges.
Tutugoro reiterated that New Caledonia continues to be recognized as a Non-Self-Governing Territory by the UN. He urged the international community to support the rights to self-determination as outlined in General Assembly resolutions and advocated for an impartial negotiation framework essential for fostering trust and successful discussions.
To reduce tensions, Tutugoro proposed a facilitation mechanism aimed at fostering inclusive dialogues that encompass diverse societal groups, including youth, women, traditional leaders, and business representatives. He stressed that transparency and the involvement of respected international mediators are critical for successful discussions.
Furthermore, he called on the French government to cease any unilateral actions regarding the post-Bougival framework, warning that the path to lasting peace hinges on equitable dialogue. The outcome of forthcoming negotiations not only affects New Caledonia but also holds ramifications for broader stability across the Pacific region, a concern emphasized during discussions at the Pacific Islands Forum.
Despite the prevailing political turmoil, there remains a hopeful prospect as various parties indicate a willingness to engage in dialogue, potentially paving the way for a just resolution. Tutugoro reaffirmed FLNKS’s commitment to working with international partners to pursue peaceful solutions that promise a prosperous future for all New Caledonians. This call for collaboration and understanding represents a significant stride toward addressing longstanding issues and achieving lasting political stability in New Caledonia.