Papua New Guinea-Bougainville: Papua New Guinea progresses Bougainville’s path toward independence in 2027
On 3 December, a Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) meeting between Papua New Guinea and Bougainville resulted in the following decisions:
PNG and Bougainville agreed to present the results of the Bougainville independence referendum to PNG’s National Parliament by June 2026.
PM Marape declared that the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) will no longer enter Bougainville.
Prime Minister Marape confirmed that the Restoration and Development Grant (RDG) owed to the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) will be released in full, without stating a timeline for payment.
Assessment: The decisions illustrate PNG’s acceptance of ABG’s independence. The presentation of referendum results to PNG’s National Parliament by June 2026 is a positive change after an informal policy of delay and obfuscation through inaction. ABG leaders have previously stated they seek to be independent on 1 September 2027. While the ABG has been preparing for some time, the June 2026 vote will give PNG around one year to produce all required formalities including legislative changes.
Sources: “‘We must give back’: Marape says government will release development grants in full,” The National, 4 December 2025; Johnny Blades, “Bougainville independence process enters 'final leg' amid lingering uncertainty,” RNZ, 5 December 2025; “Forces barred from entering Bougainville,” The National, 5 December 2025.
