The Kanak Movement refers to a political and social movement in New Caledonia, which began in the late 1970s. It aimed to address the rights and aspirations of the indigenous Kanak people, who sought greater autonomy and recognition of their cultural identity. The movement emerged in response to the perceived marginalization and exploitation of the Kanak population by colonial and post-colonial authorities. The movement gained momentum through protests and political activism, leading to significant events like the Ouvéa Cave hostage crisis in 1988. This crisis highlighted the tensions between the Kanak people and the French government, ultimately resulting in the Matignon Accords in 1988 and the Nouméa Accord in 1998, which provided a framework for greater self-governance and political representation for the Kanak people.