For the past 30 years, a wave of low-scale terrorism and its spillover to the French mainland has never reached alarming levels by today’s standards. Only dozens of people have been killed as a result of various attacks during the entire span of the uprising. Nevertheless, Corsica remains a security issue for the French Government. After decades of low-intensity conflict, it is necessary for a permanent solution to be found for Corsica. As France’s new president and someone who has dealt with Corsica in the past, former Interior Minister Nikolas Sarkozy knows the features and dynamics of this conflict and its national and regional repercussions if no solution or a flawed solution is reached. What complicates the conflict is the overwhelming desire of Corsica’s population to remain part of France in opposition to the separatist groups. In 2003, the French Government called for a referendum in Corsica, asking the locals for their opinion on what Corsica’s future should be. Specifically, it asked voters whether they would accept a new territorial assembly and an executive body that would manage more of the island’s affairs. Less than 20 percent of Corsica’s population of 260,000 wanted full independence from France; however, few dare open opposition to the warring separatist groups. It is apparently necessary, however, to give the island some kind of self-government while cracking down on separatist leaders committed to violence. The time is ripe for the capture of these leaders, who, in spite of what might be perceived by some as “noble” goals, are criminals who must be brought to justice. 19 notes