Bougainville and Buka are geographically part of the Solomon Islands, but politically part of Papua New Guinea, being a former part of German New Guinea. In 1989 a secessionist movement, the Bougainville Revolutionary Army (BRA) began an insurrection on the island. In March 1990, the PNG Security Forces withdrew from the island and the BRA declared an independent republic in May. Although a peace accord was signed between the two parties the fighting continued. A series of actions continued and in October 1992 PNG reoccupied the islands.

By late 1993, these forces were in control of the islands ports and airfield, as well as the capital, Arawa. In August 1994 the Panguina copper and gold mine - the main source of income to the islands - was recaptured by the BRA and a peace meeting was agreed. In the event, the BRA refused to attend the meetings and fighting has continued. Further meetings are scheduled for early 2000.

Postal History
Stamps inscribed 'British Solomon Islands' continued to be used after the change of name, though a new set was introduced in November 1975 with an overprint to obliterate 'British'.

South-West Pacific to 1920
Click map for larger view