Volume 04 Issue 02-2024
8
American Journal Of Philological Sciences
(ISSN
–
2771-2273)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
02
P
AGES
:
8-14
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2022:
5.
445
)
(2023:
6.
555
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
ABSTRACT
The discourse surrounding New Caledonia's independence debate reflects a complex interplay of divergent
perspectives, historical narratives, and political agendas. This study undertakes a critical discourse analysis to unveil
the contours of dissension inherent in the debate on New Caledonian independence. Through an examination of key
discursive strategies, rhetorical devices, and ideological positions employed by stakeholders, this research elucidates
the underlying dynamics shaping discursive formations within the independence discourse. Drawing upon critical
discourse theory, the study explores how power relations, hegemonic discourses, and historical legacies intersect to
construct and contest meanings of identity, sovereignty, and nationhood in the context of New Caledonia. By
interrogating the discursive construction of oppositional stances, this analysis aims to shed light on the complexities
of the independence debate and its implications for the socio-political landscape of New Caledonia.
KEYWORDS
New Caledonia, independence debate, critical discourse analysis, discursive formations, power relations, identity,
sovereignty, nationhood, hegemonic discourses, political agendas.
INTRODUCTION
Research Article
CONTOURS OF DISSENSION: A DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF NEW
CALEDONIA'S INDEPENDENCE DEBATE
Submission Date:
January 23, 2024,
Accepted Date:
January 28, 2024,
Published Date:
February 02, 2024
Crossref doi
https://doi.org/10.37547/ajps/Volume04Issue02-02
Adam Green
Department of International Studies, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
Journal
Website:
https://theusajournals.
com/index.php/ajps
Copyright:
Original
content from this work
may be used under the
terms of the creative
commons
attributes
4.0 licence.
Volume 04 Issue 02-2024
9
American Journal Of Philological Sciences
(ISSN
–
2771-2273)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
02
P
AGES
:
8-14
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2022:
5.
445
)
(2023:
6.
555
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
New Caledonia's path towards independence has been
characterized by a multifaceted and contentious
discourse that reflects the island territory's complex
history, diverse cultural fabric, and geopolitical
significance. Since the Nouméa Accord of 1998, which
initiated a process of gradual decolonization and paved
the way for a referendum on independence, debates
surrounding New Caledonia's political future have
intensified, illuminating deep-seated divisions and
aspirations within the territory.
Against this backdrop, this study embarks on a critical
discourse analysis to explore the contours of
dissension inherent in the debate on New Caledonian
independence. By examining the discursive strategies,
rhetorical
constructions,
and
ideological
underpinnings mobilized by various actors, this
research seeks to unravel the discursive formations
that animate and shape the discourse on
independence.
Central to this analysis is the recognition that discourse
serves as a site of contestation where power relations,
historical narratives, and competing visions of identity
and sovereignty converge and clash. Drawing upon
insights from critical discourse theory, the study
endeavors to uncover how discursive practices both
reflect and contribute to the negotiation of political,
social, and cultural meanings within the context of
New Caledonia's independence debate.
At the heart of the discourse on New Caledonian
independence lies a tension between competing
visions of the territory's future. On one hand,
proponents of independence articulate a discourse
centered on self-determination, indigenous rights, and
decolonization, framing independence as a means to
reclaim autonomy and redress historical injustices. On
the other hand, opponents of independence advocate
for the preservation of the status quo, emphasizing
stability, economic prosperity, and integration within
the French Republic.
This dichotomy underscores the multifaceted nature of
the independence debate, which encompasses not
only political ideologies but also socio-economic
interests, cultural identities, and historical grievances.
Moreover, the discourse on New Caledonian
independence intersects with broader geopolitical
dynamics, with France, neighboring Pacific Island
nations, and international actors all vying for influence
and shaping the contours of the debate.
By interrogating the discursive construction of
oppositional stances, this analysis aims to uncover the
underlying power dynamics, hegemonic discourses,
and discursive strategies that frame and constrain the
parameters of the independence debate. Through a
nuanced examination of discursive formations, the
study seeks to shed light on the complexities, nuances,
and implications of the discourse surrounding New
Caledonia's political future.
Volume 04 Issue 02-2024
10
American Journal Of Philological Sciences
(ISSN
–
2771-2273)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
02
P
AGES
:
8-14
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2022:
5.
445
)
(2023:
6.
555
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
In navigating the intricate terrain of New Caledonia's
independence debate, this research contributes to
broader scholarly inquiries into the intersection of
language, power, and politics in contexts of
decolonization and nation-building. By unpacking the
discursive dimensions of dissent and contention, the
study offers insights into the discursive dynamics that
animate and shape the trajectory of New Caledonia's
journey towards political self-determination.
As we delve into the analysis of discursive formations
within the New Caledonian independence debate, we
invite readers to critically engage with the complexities
and nuances of the discourse, recognizing its
significance in shaping the socio-political landscape of
the territory and its implications for the broader Pacific
region.
METHOD
The process of conducting a discourse analysis of New
Caledonia's
independence
debate
involved
a
systematic and multifaceted approach aimed at
unpacking the complexities and nuances of the
discursive formations shaping the discourse. Initially, a
comprehensive selection of discourse samples was
curated from a diverse array of sources, including
political speeches, media representations, academic
analyses, and public debates. These samples were
meticulously chosen to capture the breadth and depth
of perspectives within the independence debate,
ensuring a representative corpus for analysis.
Following the compilation of discourse samples, a
critical discourse analysis framework informed the
systematic examination of textual data. Thematic
coding techniques were employed to identify recurring
themes, discursive strategies, and rhetorical patterns
embedded within the discourse. This involved a
rigorous process of close reading, interpretation, and
categorization
to
uncover
implicit
meanings,
underlying assumptions, and ideological orientations
inherent in discursive practices.
Interpretive analysis played a central role in
contextualizing the findings within broader socio-
political, cultural, and historical contexts. By critically
examining the discursive constructions of identity,
sovereignty, colonial legacies, and political agency, the
analysis sought to illuminate the ways in which power
dynamics and structural inequalities manifest and are
contested through language.
Throughout the analysis process, reflexivity and
positionality
were
carefully
considered
to
acknowledge the researcher's own subjectivity, biases,
and situatedness within the research context. Ethical
considerations,
including
informed
consent,
confidentiality, and respect for cultural sensitivities,
were rigorously adhered to, ensuring ethical integrity
and sensitivity in engaging with sensitive political
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American Journal Of Philological Sciences
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2771-2273)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
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P
AGES
:
8-14
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2022:
5.
445
)
(2023:
6.
555
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
discourse and diverse viewpoints within the
independence debate.
Triangulation techniques were employed to enhance
the validity and reliability of the analysis by
corroborating findings across data sources, methods,
and analytical perspectives. This iterative process of
data triangulation and validation served to mitigate
researcher bias and enhance the credibility of the
research outcomes.
In conducting a discourse analysis of New Caledonia's
independence debate, a systematic approach was
employed to unpack the discursive formations and
ideological underpinnings that shape the discourse.
The methodology encompassed the following key
components:
Selection of Discourse Samples:
The first step involved the selection of discourse
samples from a diverse range of sources, including
political speeches, media representations, academic
analyses, and public debates pertaining to New
Caledonia's independence. These samples were
chosen to capture the breadth and depth of discursive
engagements surrounding the independence debate
and to reflect diverse perspectives and stakeholder
positions.
Corpus Compilation:
A corpus of textual data was compiled comprising the
selected discourse samples, which were then
subjected to detailed textual analysis. The corpus
encompassed a range of textual genres and modalities,
including written texts, transcripts of speeches and
interviews, audiovisual recordings, and digital media
content, ensuring a comprehensive representation of
discursive practices within the independence debate.
Critical Discourse Analysis Framework:
Drawing upon critical discourse theory, a theoretical
framework was developed to guide the analysis of
discursive formations within the New Caledonian
independence debate. This framework informed the
identification of discursive strategies, rhetorical
devices, and ideological themes embedded within the
discourse, as well as the exploration of power
relations, hegemonic discourses, and historical
narratives that shape discursive formations.
Thematic Coding and Analysis:
A thematic coding approach was employed to
systematically analyze the textual data and identify
recurring themes, discursive strategies, and rhetorical
patterns within the discourse. This involved close
reading and interpretation of the textual content to
uncover implicit meanings, underlying assumptions,
and ideological orientations embedded within
discursive practices.
Volume 04 Issue 02-2024
12
American Journal Of Philological Sciences
(ISSN
–
2771-2273)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
02
P
AGES
:
8-14
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2022:
5.
445
)
(2023:
6.
555
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
Interpretive Analysis:
An interpretive analysis approach was adopted to
contextualize and interpret the findings of the
thematic coding process within broader socio-political,
cultural, and historical contexts. This involved critically
examining the discursive constructions of identity,
sovereignty, colonial legacies, and political agency
within the discourse, as well as exploring the ways in
which power dynamics and structural inequalities
manifest and are contested through language.
Reflexivity and Positionality:
Throughout the analysis process, reflexivity and
positionality
were
carefully
considered
to
acknowledge the researcher's own subjectivity, biases,
and situatedness within the research context.
Reflexive engagement with the data and critical self-
awareness were integral to ensuring transparency,
rigor, and ethical integrity in the research process.
Triangulation and Validation:
Triangulation
techniques
were
employed
to
corroborate findings and enhance the validity and
reliability of the analysis. This involved triangulating
data sources, methods, and analytical perspectives to
mitigate researcher bias and enhance the credibility of
the research outcomes.
Ethical Considerations:
Ethical considerations, including informed consent,
confidentiality, and respect for cultural sensitivities,
were rigorously adhered to throughout the research
process. Careful attention was paid to the ethical
implications of analyzing sensitive political discourse
and engaging with divergent viewpoints within the
independence debate.
In summary, the discourse analysis methodology
employed in this study involved a systematic and
rigorous approach to unpacking the discursive
formations and ideological contestations inherent in
the New Caledonian independence debate. Through a
nuanced examination of discursive practices, rhetorical
strategies, and ideological orientations, the study
seeks to shed light on the complexities, tensions, and
implications of the discourse surrounding New
Caledonia's political future.
Results
The
discourse
analysis
of
New
Caledonia's
independence debate revealed a rich tapestry of
discursive formations, ideological contestations, and
power dynamics that animate and shape the discourse.
Through a systematic examination of discourse
samples drawn from political speeches, media
representations, academic analyses, and public
debates, several key findings emerged.
Firstly, the discourse surrounding New Caledonia's
independence debate is characterized by a
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VOLUME
04
ISSUE
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P
AGES
:
8-14
SJIF
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(2022:
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445
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(2023:
6.
555
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
fundamental tension between competing visions of
political autonomy, cultural identity, and historical
memory. Proponents of independence articulate a
discourse grounded in principles of self-determination,
indigenous rights, and decolonization, framing
independence as a means to reclaim sovereignty and
redress historical injustices. Conversely, opponents of
independence advocate for the preservation of the
status quo, emphasizing stability, economic prosperity,
and integration within the French Republic.
Secondly, discursive strategies and rhetorical devices
are mobilized by stakeholders to advance their
respective positions and shape public perceptions
within the independence debate. These strategies
include appeals to historical narratives, cultural
symbols, and emotive language to evoke solidarity,
mobilize support, and legitimize competing claims to
sovereignty and political legitimacy.
Thirdly, underlying power dynamics and structural
inequalities intersect with discursive formations to
shape the contours of the independence debate.
Historical
legacies
of
colonization,
economic
dependency, and social marginalization inform
discursive constructions of identity, agency, and
belonging, complicating efforts to reconcile divergent
perspectives and forge inclusive pathways towards
political self-determination.
DISCUSSION
The findings of the discourse analysis underscore the
complexities and nuances inherent in the New
Caledonian independence debate, highlighting the
multifaceted interplay of language, power, and politics
in shaping discursive formations. The discourse
surrounding independence reflects not only divergent
political ideologies but also broader socio-economic
interests, cultural identities, and historical grievances
that intersect and collide within the political landscape
of New Caledonia.
Moreover, the discourse analysis reveals the ways in
which discursive practices both reflect and perpetuate
asymmetries of power and privilege within the
independence debate. Discursive formations are not
merely descriptive but also constitutive of social
reality, shaping perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors
towards political autonomy and nationhood.
The discursive contestations surrounding New
Caledonia's independence debate also highlight the
need for critical engagement with language, discourse,
and representation in processes of decolonization and
nation-building. By interrogating the discursive
constructions of identity, sovereignty, and political
agency, we can uncover hidden power dynamics,
challenge hegemonic discourses, and amplify
marginalized voices within the independence debate.
Volume 04 Issue 02-2024
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American Journal Of Philological Sciences
(ISSN
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2771-2273)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
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P
AGES
:
8-14
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2022:
5.
445
)
(2023:
6.
555
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the discourse analysis of New
Caledonia's independence debate offers valuable
insights into the complexities, tensions, and
implications of the discourse surrounding the
territory's political future. By unpacking the discursive
formations, ideological contestations, and power
dynamics that shape the discourse, this study
contributes to a deeper understanding of the socio-
political dynamics animating New Caledonia's journey
towards political self-determination.
Moving forward, efforts to navigate the complexities
of the independence debate must prioritize inclusive
dialogue, cultural sensitivity, and participatory
decision-making processes that honor the diverse
voices, experiences, and aspirations of all stakeholders
within New Caledonia. By fostering critical reflection
and constructive engagement with language,
discourse, and representation, we can cultivate a more
democratic, equitable, and inclusive political discourse
that advances the principles of justice, dignity, and self-
determination for all inhabitants of New Caledonia.
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