Papua New Guinea-Bougainville: “Melanesian Agreement” binds both parties to uphold a non-violent approach towards Bougainville independence

On 26 June, PNG Prime Minister James Marape and Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama signed the “Melanesian Agreement,” which was adopted during talks at Burnham Military Camp, New Zealand (see SPI#23 of 4-18 June 2025). The Agreement recognises the outcome of Bougainville’s 2019 Referendum and establishes an agreed process for bringing the results before PNG’s National Parliament. It also recognises the Bipartisan Parliamentary Committee in disseminating messages to the National Parliament and Papua New Guinea regarding the Referendum and the post-referendum process. Separately, on 26 June, Papua New Guinea officially handed over its 36% share in Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL) to the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), marking a five-year process initiated in 2020. The transfer of shares gives ABG a total of about 73% in the BCL.

Assessment: The “Melanesian Agreement” does not establish specific timelines for ABG’s independence but commits both parties to developing a framework, with timelines to be determined through this process. ABG has previously set 1 September 2027 as the target date for independence. A delay in developing the framework may further prolong the achievement of these timelines, requiring continued external mediation. The “Melanesian Agreement” emphasises the commitment of both parties to uphold non-violent methods toward independence and seeks to address mistrust and ensure accountability among both parties. PNG has previously stated that ABG should not be independent until it is economically viable. The shares handover makes ABG a majority shareholder and indicates PNG’s support for the renewed independence process.

Sources: “Melanesian Agreement between the Governments of Papua New Guinea and Bougainville,” AROB, June 26, 2025; Bramo Tingkeo, “PNG transfers BCL shares to Bougainville,” Post Courier, June 26, 2025; Scott Waide, “PNG hands over majority stakes in BCL to Autonomous Bougainville Government,” RNZ, June 26, 2025; Bramo Tingkeo, “A step closer to the Fate of Bougainville Independence signed,” Post Courier,” June 26, 2025.