Children play near Fale Island in the Tokelau archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. Tokelau is a dependent territory of New Zealand. UN Secretary General calls for speeding up the decolonization process Human rights
The United Nations continues to push for the completion of decolonization around the world, while celebrating significant progress in recent decades. This was stated in the address of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, which was made at the opening of the session of the Special Committee on Decolonization on Monday.
The speech on behalf of the head of the UN was read by the head of his Office, Courtenay Rattray. He recalled that decolonization has remained one of the key objectives of the Organization since its creation. The UN was conceived as a platform where states interact on equal terms, and not in a system of “rulers and subordinates.”
Since 1945, more than a hundred countries have gained independence, and today, as noted, more and more people are realizing the right to self-determination. However, the consequences of colonialism continue to be felt – in the form of economic inequality, racism and the limited participation of some peoples in international decision-making.
Currently, there are 17 non-self-governing territories in the world. The UN believes that their future should be determined through an inclusive dialogue between representatives of the territories themselves, administering powers and UN member states, taking into account the unique needs of each of these territories and in accordance with the UN Charter and decisions of the General Assembly.
Particular attention in the speech was paid to the role of youth, which, according to the Secretary-General, should become a driving force in shaping a more equitable and inclusive future.
Climate change is identified as one of the key challenges. Most Non-Self-Governing Territories are small islands, which are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, coastal erosion and extreme weather events. The UN called for putting issues of sustainability and adaptation to climate change at the center of international discussions.
Last December, the UN celebrated the International Day against Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations for the first time. The day was a reminder that, despite the progress made, the work to complete decolonization is far from over.