Overview
- Senators approved the government’s constitutional bill 215–41, sending it to the lower house after a debate led in person by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu.
- The reform transcribes the Bougival (2025) and Élysée‑Oudinot (2026) accords and would enshrine a Caledonian state with its own nationality and potential international recognition.
- The text provides for a local referendum to approve or reject the Bougival accord before July 26, 2026, according to the version adopted by the Senate.
- Lecornu detailed a linked economic package of €2 billion over five years, €330 million to boost territorial attractiveness, and a conditional €500 million for the nickel sector pending a credible transformation plan in 2026.
- FLNKS and other independence leaders reject the accords, protests have occurred in Nouméa, internal rifts have hit pro-text groups, and the National Assembly debate from March 31 looks uncertain with left parties and the RN opposed and Socialists wary; senators also set December 20, 2026 as the latest date for the repeatedly delayed provincial elections.