Ghionga clarifies his stance on Corsican autonomy

Pierre Ghionga, president of the Un’Altra Strada group in the Corsican Assembly, has clarified his position after the Senate rejected a constitutional bill aimed at granting Corsica greater autonomy. He emphasizes that the bill was the result of a consensus among Corsican nationalists and progressive politicians from both the right and left, and he identifies himself as an autonomist, not a nationalist.

Key principles of proposed Corsican autonomy

Ghionga outlines several core principles for Corsican autonomy, including the recognition of the Corsican people as an integral part of the French people, legislative power for the Corsican Collectivity in transferred areas, a specific tax status, the official status of the Corsican language, and a resident status. These elements form the foundation of his proposed autonomy.

Definition of the Corsican people

Ghionga explains that the Corsican people is defined by a shared language, culture, and love for the island, rather than by ancestry or blood. He argues that anyone who embraces Corsican language, culture, and connection to the land can be considered part of the Corsican people. He also prefers the term "Corsican people" over "community" in the constitutional text.

Proposed constitutional changes and reference model

Ghionga suggests that Corsica should have a specific title in the French Constitution or fall under Article 74, which deals with territorial collectivities. He cites the model of a German Land as an institutional framework that guarantees competencies, highlighting the importance of structured autonomy.

Proposed restructuring of Corsican administration

Ghionga advocates for the abolition of the two departments in Corsica, along with their prefectures and sub-prefectures, replacing them with a High Commissioner of the Republic. He proposes nine territories electing a Chamber of Territories with 40 officials—four per territory except for Bastia and Ajaccio, which would have six each. This new assembly would operate alongside the current Corsican Assembly, which would be reduced to 51 members.

Rationale for the proposed reforms

Ghionga argues that these reforms would bring decisions closer to the people and simplify public administration by eliminating overlaps between the state and the Corsican Collectivity. However, the state would retain key responsibilities such as justice, defense, and foreign affairs. He insists that the autonomy he seeks is not a break from France but an improvement of the relationship with it.

Uncertain future for the autonomy proposal

The rejection of the constitutional bill by the Senate leaves the future of the autonomy proposal uncertain. Ghionga urges the government to restart dialogue to fulfill its promise of autonomy. If this does not happen, he suggests that the project could be validated through a referendum.