Scatole cinesi in Melanesia tra (mancata) decolonizzazione e micro statualità: Papua Nuova Guinea, Bougainville e Papaala

Abstract

Nested Boxes in Melanesia: Between (Incomplete) Decolonization and Micro-Statehood: Papua New Guinea, Bougainville and Papaala - The article analyses Bougainville as a constitutional laboratory where incomplete decolonization, micro-state constraints, hybrid state–customary and interplay with a fictional state governance intersect. It traces Bougainville’s separation from the culturally akin Solomon Islands through German, Australian, and PNG rule, highlighting how extractive colonial economics (Panguna mine) fuelled secessionism. The 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement (BPA) introduced asymmetric autonomy, a non-binding independence referendum, and disarmament, with double-entrenchment safeguards. Despite a 97.7% “yes” vote in 2019, independence remains stalled amid PNG parliamentary ratification disputes, slow transfer of powers, service deficits, and fiscal dependence. Furthermore, the self-proclaimed Kingdon of Papaala on Bougainvillean territory has become in the last decades a serious threat to the sovereignty of both PNG and Bougainville. King Pei II, a conman named Noah Musingku, is a charismatic leader, with a royal armed guard at his disposal, who exercise a strong control over the territory of his native Tonu village. Bougainville has still to face may challenges before getting her independence.

Keywords: Bougainvilleness; Independence; Tradition; Fictional State; Religion