Politics · Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea · October 23, 2026

Papua New Guinea parliament debates Bougainville independence

Reported by 1 outlet · under-reported · first reported Oct 22, 5:23 PM ET

Papua New Guinea's parliament held an emotional debate on whether to approve independence for the autonomous region of Bougainville, with MPs acknowledging the scars of past conflict as they near a decision.

Why it matters

Approval could lead to the creation of a new Pacific nation.

Background

Bougainville endured a civil war from 1988 to 1998. In a 2019 non-binding referendum, about 98% of voters chose independence.

Sources

• RNZ Pacific ↗Oct 22, 5:23 PM ET

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