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Ratification Mechanism – 2002

On January 23, 2002, the PNG Parliament unanimously passed the constitutional amendments related to Bougainville. Both sides of the House were united to ensure that the proposed legislation, giving more autonomy to the Bougainville Government, remained on track for the final reading in March. The amendment also allowed for a referendum on independence to be held within 10 to 15 years.¹ This also marks the ratification of the 2001 Bougainville peace agreement.

On March 27, 2002, the PNG Parliament voted unanimously in favor of a proposed constitutional amendment and organic law on peacebuilding in Bougainville.² The agreement was ratified in January 2002.

1. “Papua New Guinea: Bougainville bill clears first hurdle,” BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific, January 24, 2002.
2. “Papua New Guinea premier says ‘no turning back’ on Bougainville autonomy,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, March 28, 2002.