France has reiterated its sovereignty claims over two Pacific islands disputed by Vanuatu, following the nation’s filing of a case at the International Court of Justice.
At a Pacific islands conference in Palau, France’s junior minister for the French-speaking world, Éléonore Caroit, stated, “France’s position is clear and firm. It is a position of dialogue, a position of openness, but it is especially a reaffirmation of France’s sovereignty over these islands.”
The ICJ confirmed Vanuatu’s request to adjudicate the territorial dispute, though proceedings cannot commence without France’s consent to the court’s jurisdiction.
The uninhabited volcanic islands of Matthew and Hunter, located east of New Caledonia, span less than one square kilometer but grant France an exclusive economic zone of 350,000 square kilometers in a strategically contested region.
Vanuatu, which gained independence from France in 1980, has persistently sought the islands’ transfer, alleging historical inequities. In 2025, bilateral talks on maritime boundaries were delayed to avoid clashing with New Caledonia elections.
In May, Vanuatu’s Prime Minister Jotham Napat criticized France’s stance, accusing it of perpetuating colonialism and warning of “all diplomatic and international legal means” if negotiations fail. Vanuatu’s environment minister, Ralph Regenvanu, later stated, “We decided to discuss this issue long enough and have now submitted a request to the court.”
France acknowledges Vanuatu’s ICJ case and will address jurisdiction and merits. Caroit emphasized that sovereignty “was never on the table,” rejecting concessions amid domestic political pressure, including far-right criticisms of President Macron’s policies.
If France rejects ICJ jurisdiction, Vanuatu may pursue a UN General Assembly advisory opinion. Regenvanu cited a “cultural dossier” from Kanak customary leaders, who assert Vanuatu’s historical claim to the islands under customary law recognized by French institutions.
(AFP)
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