2019 Bougainvillean independence referendum

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2024-12-24 02:00:02

A non-binding independence referendum was held in Bougainville,[ 1] an autonomous region of Papua New Guinea, between 23 November and 7 December 2019. The referendum question presented a choice between greater autonomy within Papua New Guinea and full independence; voters voted overwhelmingly (98.31%) for independence.

The referendum was a result of a 2001 agreement between the government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government that ended a civil war fought from 1988 to 1998. The vote was non-binding, and the government of Papua New Guinea had the final authority of decision on the political status of Bougainville. Observers said that the clear result would make it difficult for Papua New Guinea to ignore or delay the result, but that independence could take years to achieve.

In July 2021, an agreement was reached between the governments of Papua New Guinea and Bougainville, under which Bougainville would gain independence by 2027[ 2] if it was ratified by Papua New Guinea's parliament.[ 3] As of November 2024, the parliament of Papua New Guinea has not ratified the agreement.[ 4]