A Critical Reflection of the Notion of “Common Destiny” in Kanaky-New Caledonia

This chapter critically reflects the notion of “common destiny” in Kanaky-New Caledonia. I argue that the binary political landscape also leads to binary social arrangements, which have the effect of hampering “living together”. The capitalist economic growth model adopted by both pro- and anti-independence parties promotes rationalism to the detriment of social and cultural coexistence and reinforces inequalities. There is currently a lack of viable alternatives to this “uncommon destiny”, and strong environmental protection measures and economic models based on solidarity are, at present, not on the agenda of political authorities. A broader vision of social and cultural change involves sustainable appropriation of the commons.