Cuarta Comisión, 1ª sesión plenaria, Asamblea General, 80° período de sesiones
Asamblea General
Date: 3 October 2025
Language: English
Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/es/ga/c4/80/1?lang=en
Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations.

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Guatemala · Chair [0:00]:

I call to order.

The first meeting of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee for the 80th session of the General Assembly. At the outset, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all delegations participating in the Committee's work during this session. I take this opportunity to express my deep appreciation to all Member States for the privilege and distinction bestowed upon my country and upon me personally through my election as Chair of this very prestigious committee of the General Assembly, I am honored for the trust and confidence you placed in me. I am sure that I speak for the entire membership of this committee in extending warm congratulations to Ambassador Sanita Pavluta-Dislandi of Latvia for the skillful and effective way she conducted the proceedings of the committee at its 79th session. I would also like to pay tribute to the other members of the previous Bureau for all their hard work in ensuring the success of the session. As I assume my responsibility as Chair of this unique body, I trust that I can count on the continuing and full support of other members of the current Bureau, our esteemed Vice-Chairs, Ms. Joseline Kuyishaka of Burundi, Mr. Noel Novicio of the Philippines, and Mr. Raphael Rupacher of Austria, as well as our distinguished rapporteur, Mr. David Sz Nagy of Hungary, all of whom have already demonstrated dependable dedication to the smooth functioning of the Committee in the preparation of this session. I trust that our deliberations will be guided by a spirit of collaboration and understanding, and in this regard, I count on the goodwill and cooperation of all members of the Committee. I assure all delegations that I shall do my utmost to ensure that our work is carried out efficiently and successfully. So, let's move now to the organization of the work of the Committee for this session. Firstly, I would like to draw your attention to document A/C4/80/1, informing the Committee that the General Assembly at its meeting on 12 September 2025, allocated 17 items to the Fourth Committee for its consideration. Next, I would like to draw the attention of the Committee to document A/C4/AT/L.1, containing the Committee's programme of work and timetable for this session. This document contains a few changes to the proposed programme of work that was approved by the General Assembly at its 79th session and contained in document A/79/432. The first change relates to the reduced number of meetings. Due to the liquidity crisis, all main committees were requested to make a 10% reduction in the total number of meetings for the session. The next change pertains to the inclusion of the new agenda item entitled "Eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations". In accordance, pursuant to the request of the sponsors of the mandating resolution 79/115, this item is considered separate from the decolonization cluster. This means that after considering our organizational matters today, we would commence the general debate on this item. However, Action on any draft proposals submitted under this item would be taken on Thursday, 16 October, after the conclusion of the Decolonization Cluster. The Bureau and I have consulted on this revised programme of work, which was circulated on 14 August and which is now included in document L/1. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank delegations for their feedback. Finally, I would like to add that we shall have three additional meetings in the spring of next year, and these are not included in document L.1. They are one informal dialogue concerning special political missions, a formal meeting to discuss the report of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations, and a formal meeting to elect the next bureau of the Fourth Committee. May I take it that the Committee approves the programme of work and timetable contained in document L/1? It is so decided. The organization of work and timetable contained in document L1 is approved. I will now make some procedural remarks concerning the conduct of the Committee's work. As in previous years, and pursuant to rules 67 and 108 of its rules of procedure, the Assembly has decided for this session that meetings of the main committees can be declared open and debates proceed without the presence of at least one quarter of the members of the committee. To make full use of the time and conference services allocated to the Committee, and with your co-operation and support, I will convene the meetings of the Committee on time as scheduled at 10 am and 3 pm sharp. I therefore request all speakers to be in the conference room on time. Similarly, I will adjourn the meetings on time. Draft resolutions, draft decisions and amendments, as well as the names of all the sponsors of the drafts, should be submitted through the e-sponsorship module of e-delegate before the relevant deadline published in document L1. Electronic copies of the final versions, together with the contact information of the main sponsor, should be sent to the Secretariat before the deadline for processing. Main sponsors wishing to convene informal consultations on their draft proposals are kindly requested to submit such requests in writing to the Secretariat of the Fourth Committee for assistance with scheduling such consultations. In order to facilitate the interpretation of statements into the six official languages, all speakers are encouraged to send their statements in advance to e-statements@un.org. The statements will also be published in the journal, unless they are clearly marked with "for interpretation only". In addition, I would like to draw your attention to paragraph 4 of resolution 49/221B, in which the General Assembly requested chairpersons to propose to Member States at the beginning of each session the adoption of time limits for speakers. In this regard, I suggest that during the general debates, Member States limit their statements to 10 minutes when speaking in their national capacity and to 15 minutes when speaking on behalf of a group of States. Statements by the representatives of the non-self-governing territories should not exceed seven minutes, while statements by petitioners should be limited to three minutes. Interventions by Member States during the hearing of petitioners should not exceed three minutes. After consultation with the Bureau, I further propose the following time limits for other categories of statements in line with past practice. Explanations of vote and general statements before and after action on draft proposals: five minutes. The first intervention in the exercise of the right of reply: five minutes, and the second intervention: three minutes. three minutes. Statements in the introduction of draft proposals by sponsors, three minutes. These time limits will be strictly enforced with automatic microphone cut-off as in the past, and that's why I appeal to all delegations to please be kind enough to cooperate in this regard. I invite delegations with longer statements to read out an abbreviated version and to send the full statement to e-statements@un.org for posting in the Official Journal of the UN. Member States wishing to participate in the general debate on other items are urged to kindly inscribe their names as soon as possible and before the deadlines on the respective list of speakers via the e-speakers module of e-delegate. Priority will be given to groups before individual delegations. Changes in the order of inscription can only be made in mutual consent between delegations that agree to exchange places on the list. Are there any comments? I don't see anyone asking for the floor. It is so decided. I now draw your attention to document A/C4/AT/Inf/1. which contains the list of the documents before the Committee for information purposes. Some of them have been issued, while a few others are yet to be issued. All Committee documents, including draft resolutions, will be continuously posted on the Fourth Committee website on the new iGov.un.org website, and on the fourth committee place on e-delegate as soon as they are issued. I further draw your attention to item 48, entitled International Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. As at previous sessions, the Committee will establish a working group of the whole, open to all members, to consider the proposals submitted under this item. In order to expedite our work, I propose that the Committee establish this working group now so that it may begin its work without delay. May I take it that the Commission wishes to establish this working group of the whole? It is so decided. Delegations will recall that this working group is traditionally chaired by the Chair of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, afterwards referred to as COPUOS. May I take it that it is the wish of the Committee to elect Mr. Rafik Akram of Morocco, current Chair of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, as chair of the working group of the whole on outer space. It is so decided. By approving the programme of work and timetable, the Committee has decided to hold one joint general debate covering the cluster of decolonization agenda items 54 to 58. This decision will enable Committee members to speak on all items or on any specific item at any given meeting during our consideration of those items from the 6th to the 16th of October. As indicated in L1, the list of speakers for the decolonisation cluster has been open and will close on Monday, 13 October, at 6:00 pm. Please note that for the new item, entitled "Eradicating colonialism in all its forms", the list of speakers will close this afternoon at 4:00 pm. In accordance with the Committee's practice, the representatives of non-self-governing territories and petitioners will be heard during the Committee's consideration of the related territory, namely at its meetings on 7 to 13 October. In this regard, I would like to draw your attention to the edmemoir circulated containing the list of petitioners who have requested to address the Committee. We have received a total of 257 requests for hearings relating to the questions of Gibraltar, Guam, the Malvinas Islands, the Falkland Islands, the Turks and Caicos Islands, the British Virgin Islands, the United States Virgin Islands, New Caledonia, French Polynesia, and Western Sahara. Are there any comments on the ed memoire? I see no requests for the floor. In accordance with the Committee's practice, may I take it that these requests be circulated as Committee documents and be considered at our next meeting, to be held on Monday, 6th October? It is so decided. I would also like to inform the Committee that I have received communications from Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, French Polynesia, Gibraltar and Guam on their interest to send their representatives to address the Committee under item 58. On other matters, I would like to urge delegations to kindly submit the names of the members of their delegations as early as possible, and no later than 27 October 2025, to the Fourth Committee Secretariat through the e-List of Participants module on e-Delegate. This will enable the Secretariat to prepare and circulate the list of participants of the Fourth Committee in a timely manner. The UN Department for Global Communications has informed that for this session there will be no press release coverage of the GA's six main committees due to liquidity constraints. Webcasts will continue to be provided for all meetings. In accordance with our programme of work, we will now commence consideration of agenda item 59, entitled "Eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations". I would like to recall to delegations that the list of speakers for this item will close at 4 p.m. The Committee will now proceed to the general debate on this agenda item. I would like to also remind delegations of the time limit of 10 minutes for national statements and 15 minutes for statements made on behalf of a group. Once again, I invite delegations with longer statements to read out an abbreviated version and to send the full statement to estatements@un.org for posting in the UN Journal. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, speaking on behalf of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations.


Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) · Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations [20:48]:

Thank you very much, Mr. President, my friend. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations. whose member states welcome the convening of this debate for the first time to address the question of eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations, pursuant to the provisions of General Assembly resolution 79/115, presented last year by our group. This being the first time that we've taken the floor during this current 80th regular session of the General Assembly, allow us to convey To you and to your bureau, our best wishes. President, we speak today with one voice to reaffirm that decolonization, which since day one has been one of the top priorities of the United Nations. still remains unfinished business, and that beyond the traditional view on these issues, we ought to acknowledge that colonialism has evolved into more subtle but equally more pernicious forms that seek to pressure, dominate, or subjugate sovereign and independent states, particularly in the developing world. Eighty years after the entry into force of the Charter of the United Nations, our collective pledge to uphold the principles of sovereign equality, non-interference and the inalienable right of all peoples to self-determination must be defended against these contemporary practices. Today's colonialism does not always carry a flag or involve boots on the ground. It manifests through economic exploitation, externally imposed constraints on national development, denial of access to technologies, humanitarian goods and medical equipment, interference in internal affairs such as electoral processes, and attempts to replace the purposes and principles of the UN Charter with a set of non-consensual so-called rules. These practices are, to say the least, incompatible with the Charter and militate against universal peace and coexistence. Many of the members of our group can describe from direct experience how these contemporary methods of colonialism operate: illegal unilateral coercive measures, external political and media campaigns designed to stigmatize and to isolate peoples and governments, the instrumentalization of international institutions for geopolitical ends, and the unfair conditioning of finance and assistance on political concessions that attempt to erode sovereignty. Such measures inflict, amongst other things, collective punishment, they obstruct development, and they attempt to dictate a people's political and economic choice. In other words, precisely what the very essence of the inalienable right to self-determination forbids. Therefore, we would like to take this opportunity to reiterate that all peoples have the right to self-determination, and by virtue of that right, they can freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social and cultural development. Contemporary forms and practices of colonialism, whatever label they might bear, including unilateral coercive measures, are incompatible with the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples. President, in the light of all of this, we align with the consensus that decolonization's completion requires new tools and candid debate. We welcome the growing readiness of the General Assembly and of this Fourth Committee to recognize and debate the question of colonialism in all its forms and manifestations, including what today we refer to as neocolonialism, and to address the information, memory and education dimensions that help societies identify and resist, therefore, such contemporary practices. We therefore support the establishment of an International Day against Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. And today we announce our decision to present a draft resolution towards that end, in line with the relevant provisions of General Assembly resolution 79/115. We are convinced that this would be a step in the right direction, as it would provide us an annual opportunity to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples. and to raise awareness of both the outstanding decolonization processes as well as contemporary practices that seek to curtail self-determination. We look forward to initiating in the coming days negotiations on this proposal, and we thank you all in advance for your active and constructive engagement with the process. On a separate note, we'd also like to take this opportunity to call on the Department of Global Communications and the Department of Political and Peace Building Affairs to develop an outreach program working with relevant regional organizations, educational institutions, and civil society to remember colonialism, its root causes, and its consequences, and to expose contemporary forms aimed at restricting national sovereignty and development. This is essential to save succeeding generations from the recurrence of domination and foreign occupation, whether direct or disguised in the practices used by those who pursue today neocolonial agendas. President, neocolonialism also hides itself in conditionalities that subordinate development assistance to political alignment, in predatory debt dynamics, in illicit appropriation of natural resources, in digital monopolies and information warfare, and in manufactured conflicts engineered for geopolitical gain. These patterns, too often justified through a rhetoric of a rules-based order, undermine international economic cooperation and block social and cultural progress. They must be named and rejected. We therefore urge all member states to refrain from adopting unilateral coercive measures because they are incompatible with the Charter of the United Nations and the norms of international law, whilst also impeding the full achievement of development and the enjoyment of human rights by those populations that these measures target. We likewise express deep concern over rising debt burdens and harmful practices of unfair conditionality, which can infringe upon sovereign decision-making and entrench dependency. These are really contemporary conduits of domination that must be addressed in our multilateral work, including within the context of this Committee. Our group of Friends also supports advancing discussions on reparatory justice, consistent with international law and respectful dialogue among States. Acknowledging historical injustices, ensuring truth-telling, including through access to archives, and promoting non-repetition are indispensable steps towards healing and towards a future international order that's based in equality, mutual benefit, and respect, as foreseen in the founding charter of our organization. We also would like to reiterate our solidarity with peoples who are still denied their inalienable right to self-determination by colonial domination or foreign occupation. In this regard, and consistent with our principled positions, we would recall the situation of the State of Palestine, which has, at its core, decades of colonial oppression and occupation. The international community must not lose sight of such critical questions, including that of the non-self-governing territories that are part of the agenda of the C24, as prolonged denial of justice to all these peoples undermines the rule of law and the very purposes of the UN Charter. Chair, this Committee can and must play a catalytic role in updating the UN's decolonization toolbox for the 21st century. Guided by the purposes and principles enshrined in the foundational Charter, and building on the momentum created by the General Assembly's recent attention to all forms and manifestations of colonialism, we propose the following concrete steps. Firstly, to hold within the context of the Fourth Committee a standalone thematic debate on an annual basis, specifically on the question of contemporary forms and practices of colonialism, aimed at identifying patterns, sharing best practices and recommending actions, specific actions to the General Assembly. Secondly, to recommend that the General Assembly proclaim the 14th of December as the International Day against Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. and invite observance through educational and public information activities at national, regional, and global levels. Thirdly, encourage the UN Secretariat to design, in close consultation with the African Union, CARICOM, and CELAC, an outreach program to remember colonialism's root causes and consequences, as well as to raise awareness of its contemporary expressions, including, amongst other things, economic coercion, illicit resource extraction, and disinformation. 4. Urge all States to desist from the promulgation and application of unilateral coercive measures and other practices incompatible with the UN Charter that obstruct development and violate the sovereign equality of States. 5. Invite States and relevant organizations to share methodologies for assessing development harm arising from neo-colonial practices, including debt vulnerabilities and unfair conditionalities. with a view to enabling, amongst others, resilience and self-sufficiency. Chair, the Member States of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations are convinced that a world genuinely free from colonialism in all its forms and manifestations requires that every nation be able to choose in a sovereign manner its political, economic, social and cultural development path without coercion or tutelage of any sort. That is the essence of self-determination. That is the promise of the UN Charter. As such, we will spare no effort to preserve, promote and defend its prevalence and validity in international relations, and we will work constructively with all delegations to ensure that the Fourth Committee's deliberations advance towards concrete outcomes that are worthy of that promise and tangible to all. Let us honour our collective pledge to leave no one behind, including those peoples and nations still subjected openly or covertly to foreign domination, foreign occupation, economic subjugation or political coercion. We stand ready to engage with all responsible members of the international community to move from rhetoric to action and to help ensure that this organization completes the historic task that cannot be postponed of eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. Very briefly, Chair, in my national capacity, I'd now like to denounce the harassment and aggressive campaign of the government of the United States against my country, and that can be seen today in a military deployment that's unjustified and unprecedented, including nuclear assets that are threatening the territorial integrity and political independence of Venezuela, as well as the peace and security of Latin America and the Caribbean as a whole. This is a further expression of a new form of colonialism, seriously weakening the UN Charter and all norms of international law. We reject in the most robust terms these hostile policies against my country, and we call upon all responsible members of the international community to remain alert with regard to these neo-colonialist plans that aim to undermine the sovereignty and national sovereignty of Venezuela and of all countries that refuse to give in to the pressure of the supremacist regime of the United States and their blackmail. Thank.

You.


Guatemala · Chair [33:34]:

I thank the distinguished delegate of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of the Russian Federation.


Russian Federation [33:47]:

Mr. Chairman, congratulations on your election to chair the proceedings of the Fourth Committee throughout the 80th session of the General Assembly. We wish you a very productive session. You can count on the Russian Federation's support. We're grateful. to you for organizing this debate on this new item on the agenda, the eradication of colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. This was possible thanks to the adoption of the eponymous resolution 79/115, an initiative of the Group of Friends in Defense of the UN Charter. We fully stand in solidarity with them. Now, the process of decolonization began when the UN adopted the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Peoples and Countries back in 1960. This was an initiative of the USSR. 65 years on, the provisions contained in this document retain all of their relevance. 17 non-self-governing territories have not yet managed to exercise their rightful control over their own fate. This is an important issue which will be discussed on the 6th of October in detail during a separate debate. Today, we'd like to discuss whether it's possible to really talk about genuine eradication of colonialism and what to do with contemporary forms and manifestations thereof. Over the last decades, thanks to national liberation movements, tens of countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America through of the cast off the colonial yoke and achieved independence. But did they all become truly free? Perhaps the best definition of neocolonialism was penned by the first president of an independent Ghana and one of the founding fathers of the Organization of African Unity, Mr. Kwame Nkrumah. He said that the essence of neocolonialism is that the state, which is a subject in theory, and independent, has all the outward trappings of international sovereignty. In reality, that government's economic system and thus its political policy is directed from the outside." This definition has lost none of its relevance. It conveys the very essence of this phenomenon very well. Former colonial capitals, using a broad arsenal of military, political, financial, economic, cultural, and ideological means, are continuing to exploit their former colonies. A large portion of the functions of former colonial powers were taken over by mighty transnational corporations. New methods, new modus operandi were developed. Nonetheless, the objectives, the goals were the same, are the same as hundreds of years ago. Robbing less developed countries, exploitation of natural, human and other resources in the colonial powers' interests, A number of private manifestations of neocolonialism can be seen here at the UN. Look no further than the fact that we still have pen-holdership in the Security Council, pen-holdership which is concentrated in the hands of three Western Security Council members. What can The countries of the Global South do today. They have an advantage in terms of population numbers and the number of votes they have at the UN. But what can they do to counter a narrow group of states who continue their neocolonial practices according to the divide and rule principle? The main thing is to not remain silent, but to point out this problem courageously so and to discuss ways of solving it together. What we need to do is reanimate discussions on anti-colonialism here at the UN, thanks to the initiative, initiatives such as resolution 79/115 and a draft GA resolution that's been submitted for the committee's consideration on the proclamation of International Day Against Colonialism in all of its forms and manifestations. The painful legacy of the colonial era shouldn't be left for the historians to mull over. We need to tirelessly fight for justice from the former colonial capitals. Against this backdrop, we note the African Union's efforts. The African Union proclaimed 2025 a year of justice for Africans and persons of African descent through reparations. We also commend a joint initiative by the AU and CARICOM, the objective being to establish an African fund for reparations and an international expert group for developing instruments and mechanisms for compensation, including compensation for the slave trade, colonialism, apartheid, and genocide. We call on the secretariat to swiftly develop and implement awareness-raising campaigns on how we can preserve the memory of colonialism, its root causes and consequences, as per resolution 79/115. Artificially delaying this very important initiative on the pretext that we're facing budget restrictions is unacceptable. At the same time, it's important to move together towards the formulation of a term, neocolonialism, and a systematic development of its constituent practices. On our side, we believe that this amounts to economic subjugation, including the dollarization of the global economy, debt dependence, unilateral sanctions, and trade wars. It also includes military and political pressure, interference in electoral processes, and support for so-called color revolutions. And most frequently, this is done under the fig leaf of concern about human rights or compliance with the so-called rules-based order. Other examples of neocolonial approaches include political blackmail in exchange for humanitarian assistance and technical assistance, rewriting of history, and pressure exerted on mass consciousness via the media, as well as control over communications. In order to counter neocolonial practices, we need to cooperate not only at the state level, but at the party level, at the civil society level, and at the level of our people. In Russia in 2024, an informal association of political parties and civil society organizations was established. It's called For the Freedom of Nations. It's Participants include those from over 50 countries. They are fighting against former colonial capitals continuing to dominate, which undermines the sovereignty of independent states. The standing committee of the forum will be holding its next meeting in November in Sochi. Large-scale international events on combating colonialism are being held in the Russian Federation in academia at the Russian University for the Friendship of Peoples, the Africa Institute at the Russian Academy of Sciences as well. In January of this year, within the Russian University for the Friendship of Peoples, we had a scientific seminar, "Colonialism, Neocolonialism, and the United Nations." That was the title. And reports are in the works on this topic. with the participation of historians and researchers from countries of the global south. We understand that such initiatives, such events are also being held in many of our partners' countries. Right now in Caracas, there's a large-scale international conference being held entitled Colonialism and Neocolonialism. We have politicians, scientists, activists, and civil society organizations from 55 countries partaking in that event. More broadly, all states who are not prepared to sit idly by and watch the consequences of colonialism and neocolonialism manifest themselves need to pool their efforts to build a multipolar world in which there is no place for any state or group of states dictating the rules. As an alternative, we need mutually beneficial relations on an equal footing, which exclude any external interference. That was the very bedrock on which organizations such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization were established. Their successful development and expansion attest to the fact that a multipolar world, which used to be a dream for many generations, is gradually becoming a reality. I thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [42:39]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of the Russian Federation. And I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Cuba.


Cuba [42:51]:

Thank you, Chair. President, my delegation joins in the messages of congratulations on your election as Chair of the Fourth Committee, as well as the other members of the Bureau. We wish you success in your work during this session. My delegation would like to endorse the statement delivered by Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations. And we're grateful for the inclusion of this item on the General Assembly's agenda, so relevant at this time as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. Nearly 65 years ago, the General Assembly adopted a landmark document recognizing the right of all peoples to self-determination. The Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples proclaimed the need to bring colonialism to a speedy and unconditional end in all its forms and manifestations. The United Nations has an essential role to play in the fight against colonialism. As long as there remains even a single people under such conditions, the work of this organization will remain unfinished. Today, we find ourselves halfway through the fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism. Yet, despite the efforts of the international community, 17 non-self-governing territories and others, such as Puerto Rico, continue to suffer from this scourge. The decolonization process, which enabled self-determination and independence for many peoples and territories under colonial domination, is regarded as one of the most significant transformations of the 20th century. Colonialism is incompatible with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. It obstructs the social, cultural and economic development of the people subjected to it and undermines their cultural identity and legitimate aspirations. Colonial practices have no place in today's world. Any actions that we undertake now and in the future to eradicate colonialism will help to preserve multilateralism and promote the well-being of peoples. At the same time, they will contribute to finally eradicating the historical legacies of colonialism linked to a past of slavery, plunder, exploitation and extermination. In this context, we attach particular importance to declaring 14 December as the International Day against Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. We hope that this date will serve to reflect on how far humanity has progressed toward eliminating this scourge and how much further we still have to go. By doing this, we will be raising awareness of the remnants of colonialism, its root causes and its consequences. The visibility of these issues through the organization's information and communications platforms in addition to publicizing our work, will be a tool to generate international awareness and social commitment toward the decolonization process. More than five decades have passed since the adoption of the first resolution on the colonial question of Puerto Rico. Despite this and the many efforts undertaken by the Special Committee on Decolonization, the people of Puerto Rico still cannot exercise their legitimate right to self-determination. The United States of America, the colonial power, tries by every means to tighten its economic, political, and social control over this Latin American and Caribbean brotherly people. Yet, after so many years of colonial domination, it has not succeeded in stripping the Puerto Rican people of their culture, identity, and sense of national being. Chair, eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations also requires ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We strongly denounce the ongoing usurpation of Palestinian territories and the expulsion of their population from their lands. Israeli settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, are null and void and constitute a flagrant violation of international law. We reject that Israel continues to use hunger, food supply and humanitarian aid as weapons of war. An immediate and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is urgently needed, along with the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces. Israel must allow sufficient humanitarian aid to enter without conditions or restrictions and must authorize the indispensable work of UNRWA. Cuba reaffirms its conviction that only through the two-state solution, with the creation of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state within the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital and guaranteeing the right of return of refugees. Only then can a just and lasting peace be achieved. Let us redouble our efforts in this essential and highly relevant area of the Organization's work. The eradication of colonialism in all its forms and manifestations will contribute to building this world that we all aspire to, one that promotes the well-being and independence of peoples. Thank you very much.


Guatemala · Chair [48:13]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Zimbabwe.


Zimbabwe [48:25]:

Thank you, Chair. Zimbabwe warmly congratulates you and the Bureau on your election. You can count on our full support. This Committee has carried, since resolution 1514 of 1960, the historic responsibility of advancing decolonization, and it remains the custodian of this unfinished business. Chair, resolution 1514 was a watershed moment. It inspired liberation struggles across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, affirming the inalienable right of all peoples to self-determination and independence. The independence of my own country, Zimbabwe, together with many others across the globe, stands as living testimony to the transformative spirit of that declaration. Yet, six decades later, the promise remains incomplete. Seventeen non-self-governing territories are still denied full self-governance. In Africa, the people of Western Sahara continue to be denied the right to freely determine their political status. Other territories across the Caribbean, the Pacific, too, still await the fulfillment of this declaration. Mr. Chair, Zimbabwe supports the draft resolution declaring 14 December as the International Day Against Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. Since such a commemoration will remind us to remain vigilant, to defend sovereignty and equality, and to ensure that no people remain under colonial rule in the 21st century, we must also recognize that colonialism persists in new guises, unilateral coercive measures, proxy conflicts, and interference in internal affairs, which strip nations of their sovereignty and exploit their resources. Mr. Chair, the right to self-determination, enshrined in the UN Charter and reaffirmed in resolution 2625, is universal, indivisible and inalienable. Zimbabwe calls on all Member States to stand in solidarity with Western Sahara and all non-self-governing territories, uphold international law without selectivity, and act collectively to close this unfinished chapter of decolonization. The credibility of the United Nations will depend on whether it fulfills its promise of freedom and dignity for all its peoples. I thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [51:10]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of Zimbabwe. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Angola.


Angola [51:20]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. My delegation congratulates you, Mr. Chair, and the members of the Bureau on your election. Please be assured of Angola's full support. We take this opportunity to express our appreciation to the last session's Bureau member for the work well done. Excellencies, Angola welcomes this new item on the Fourth Committee agenda. Eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations remains a matter of concern in this century. Colonialism was one of the most serious violations of human freedom, human dignity, and a blatant violation of human rights. It was indeed one of the most despicable crimes in human history. Eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations is essential for achieving true global peace, justice, equality, and self-determination. Addressing colonialism, exploitation, cultural omission, and systematic differences rooted in colonialism legacy. The United Nations charters and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognized in the double rights of self-determination to all people in the world. Mr. Chair, The African Union has designated 2025 as the Year of Justice for African People and the African Descent through Reparation. This initiative underscores the AU's commitment to addressing historical injustice, including transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, apartheid, and genocide. It builds on decades of advocacy and collaboration, aiming to foster unity and establish mechanisms for reparation justice in global scale. Furthermore, the second African CARICOM summit held on 7 September 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, under the theme Transcontinental Partnership in Pursuit of Reparatory Justice for African and People of African Descent through Reparation, stressed the need to transform past injustice into solidarity, cooperation, and justice. At that meeting, heads of state and government reiterated the unwavering call for reparatory justice for African and people of African descent. They underscored that the enduring legacy of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and chattel of enslavement constitutes grave crime against humanity, which necessitates restitution, compensation, and development. To this end, the Summit agreed to adopt that is a declaration on transcontinental partnership in pursuit of reparatory justice for African and people of African descent through reparation. Mr. Chair, African nation, Caribbean states, and the global African diaspora are working together to strengthen unity, deepen integration, and jointly pursue for reparation and reparatory justice through comprehensive transcontinental partnership framework. In this regard, Angola would like to highlight the importance of facilitating and supporting the right of self-determination through transparent and inclusive processes, enabling the non-self-governing territories to determine their political status and the future governance arrangements. In this regard, Angola support the establishment of 14 December as the International Day Against Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations to be observed annually. It will be indeed an opportunity to raise awareness of colonialism in all its forms and manifestations, allowing societies to identify and resist contemporary practice of domination and colonialism. History of colonialism cannot be erased, but serve as a mirror to reflection. so that we do not return to the past, which in some cases still present in our society. Excellencies, to conclude, Angola reaffirm its principled position of strong rejection of colonialism in all its forms and manifestation. We defend the right of people to self-determination and independence of territories that remain occupied. Decolonization is not a favor, but it's a right for all people in the world. Thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [56:17]:

I thank the distinguished delegate of Angola, and I give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Lithuania, also on behalf of Estonia, Czechia, Latvia, Poland, Moldova, and Ukraine.


Lithuania · Estonia, Czechia, Latvia, Moldova, Poland, Ukraine and Lithuania [56:34]:

Thank you, Mr. President. At the outset, allow me to congratulate you on assuming the presidency of this committee. Please be assured of our full support and cooperation. As you noted, I will be speaking on behalf of the group of countries Estonia, Algeria, Latvia, Moldova, Poland, Ukraine, and my own country, Lithuania. We reaffirm our strong support for the UN decolonization agenda. the principles of independence, self-determination, and sovereign equality of all states, and the need to address the broader legacies of colonialism. Nevertheless, this new agenda item, eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations, was introduced last year through a resolution which many countries, including ours, could not support. We did not. because one of its main sponsors, the Russian Federation, is cynically and systematically violating both the spirit and the letter of this resolution. We cannot accept any attempts to justify Russia's illegal aggression against sovereign Ukraine using decolonization as cover, also undermining the genuine efforts to address the legacy of colonialism, a matter of a great importance to the wider UN membership. While portraying itself as a champion of decolonization, Russia fails in all aspects of this role as it continues to wage a neocolonial and imperial war of aggression against Ukraine and also occupies parts of its smaller neighbors' territories. Russia explores its occupied lands, natural and agricultural resources, abuses its populations in grave violation of the UN Charter and international law. Children living under Russian occupation are subjected to deportation, forced adoptions, and systematic re-education aimed at erasing identity, culture, and sense of belonging, thereby reviving some of the worst colonial practices. These tactics are very familiar to many European countries that suffer under Soviet domination and occupation. In 50 years of illegal occupation by the Soviet Union, People of the Baltic states and other subjugated people suffered executions, repressions, mass deportation, and forced Russification. We regret that there has never been any accountability for Soviet totalitarian crimes and that Russia continues to misrepresent and misuse these historical facts in its narratives. Russia's neocolonial ambitions reach beyond Ukraine or Europe. Russia, a self-styled protector of the global south, is interested in profiteering and control. It is known to practice economic exploitation, human rights abuses, and control of local decision makers, including through paramilitary proxies, far from its own borders. Mr. President, we reject Russia's attempts to dominate, intimidate, or establish a sphere of influence over its neighbors or elsewhere. Colonialism belongs to the dustbin of the history. We reiterate our determination to continue to support all credible steps to achieve full decolonization and address the legacy of the colonial era in line with the principles and objectives of the UN Charter. I thank you, Mr. President.


Guatemala · Chair [1:00:14]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of Lithuania, and I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran.


Iran (Islamic Republic of) [1:00:30]:

Mr. Chair, as this is the first occasion my delegation is taking the floor during the current session of the Fourth Committee, I would like to extend our full support to you and all other members of the Bureau throughout this session. We are committed to engage actively and constructively with relevant delegations to advance the critical agenda items entrusted to this important committee. My delegation aligns with the statement delivered by the representative of Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. Additionally, we joined other speakers in welcoming the convening of this debate for the first time in the Special Political and Decolonization Committee. Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, it is our common understanding that the current that the central and enduring priority of this committee remains decolonization, a process that is still incomplete, not only in the traditional sense, as evidenced by the 17 remaining non-self-governing territories, but also in addressing the ongoing challenges and unresolved issues stemming from colonial legacy, mentalities, and policies. recognize that colonialism concept has evolved into more modern and subtle forms, including but not limited to unjust political, economic, and social pressures. While these manifestations are less overt than in the past, they are equally detrimental. Such practices disproportionately targeted independent developing countries, seeking to coerce, dominate, or subjugate them to serve the narrow political and economic interests of certain powers, primarily those that were the main colonial powers historically, as well as others that have since adopted comparable strategies. My delegation believes that we must work together to ensure that all non-self-governing territories are fully addressed while also actively defending the rights to self-determination for peoples living under foreign occupation. We must also remain committed to uphold fundamental principles such as sovereign equality, non-interference in internal affairs, and the prohibition of use of force against territorial integrity. Accordingly, any form of colonialism, including economic exploitation, externally imposed obstacles to development, denial of access to technology, humanitarian aid, and medical supplies, as well as any attempt to undermine the principles of the United Nations, especially through unilateral coercive measures that clearly violate international law and the UN Charter, must be firmly condemned and rejected. Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, in this context, resolution 79/115, entitled "Eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations," was adopted by the General Assembly last year. We welcomed its adoption, regarding it as a genuine and collective response by the international community to neocolonialism practices. By supporting this resolution, the majority of Member States reaffirmed their commitment to condemning colonialism in all its forms and manifestations, and to assisting peoples in fully exercising their right to independence and self-governance. Recognizing the need to take further steps in the process of eradicating colonialism, we believe that establishment of an International Day against Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations will constitute meaningful progress. Such an initiative would provide an annual occasion to commemorate the declaration on the granting of independence to colonial countries and peoples. It also raises awareness of both the remaining decolonization processes and the contemporary practices that continue to deny people's rights to self-determination under foreign occupation and colonial domination. Last but not least, Mr. Chair, my delegation firmly believes that conflicts arising from violation of sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of states as well as from the denial of inalienable rights of people under foreign occupation and colonial domination, including their rights to self-determination, remains a serious threat to international peace and security. This reality concerns not only the peoples of the 17 non-self-governing territories, but also those subjected to colonial and occupied policies, including the Palestinian people. We stress that resolving the question of Palestine must remain a central priority of the United Nations, for as long as occupation persists, and legitimate struggles are.

Superseded. Thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [1:06:44]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Nicaragua.


Nicaragua [1:06:57]:

Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Please accept our congratulations on your election to chair this committee. And we'd also like to express our congratulations to the entire permanent mission of Guatemala, a brotherly South American country, which, with regard to this subject, as you know, we all together 1821, experienced the same history. We'd like to express our recognition to the Bureau and the Secretariat for their tireless work and support for the activities of this body. We align ourselves with the statement delivered by Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the UN Charter. The Republic of Nicaragua, heir to a people who forged their independence with courage and dignity, and faithful to a living memory of resistance against foreign oppression, reiterates its firmest rejection and absolute condemnation of colonialism. We speak of systematic genocides and decimated populations, of a cultural extermination where languages were banned, beliefs persecuted, and ancestral traditions ridiculed or eradicated. all in the name of a so-called civilization, which in reality was barbarism disguised as progress. As the Nicaraguan people, lovers of freedom and defenders of peace, we cannot ignore these deep scars to the soul of our nations. Nicaragua vigorously rejects colonialism, neocolonialism, imperialism, and fascism in all its forms. These are not relics of a distant past. They are perverse realities that adapt and mutate to maintain their dominance over our peoples. Our solidarity extends to those who have suffered and endured the misfortunes and evils generated by the selfishness and greed of colonialism, of imperialism, racism, and all abominable and oppressive forms of domination. Chair, today we are witnessing the resurgence and intensification of neocolonial practices, financial warfare, economic strangulation through cruel and illegal unilateral coercive measures, media manipulation to poison global public opinion, and blatant interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states. promoting attempts at destabilization. These neo-colonial practices seek to break the will of peoples who dare to choose their own destiny. They are the new face of the old desire for domination and colonialism. Nicaragua categorically condemns the use of unilateral coercive measures as instruments of foreign policy. These measures, which brutally affect populations, constitute a flagrant violation of international law and of the UN Charter and represent an act of economic warfare and state terrorism. Likewise, we denounce the resurgence of fascist ideologies and practices. which glorify supremacy, racism and xenophobia, and which are used to justify aggression against nations that defend their right to self-determination and to build models of society based on social justice, equity and sovereignty. We express our solidarity with the people and government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in the face of colonialist practices. and we join the worldwide chorus demanding an end to the illegal and inhumane economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba, an act of genocide that has lasted for decades. Chair Nicaragua denounces the colonial and apartheid situation suffered by the heroic Palestinian people. Palestine lives under a brutal and prolonged illegal military occupation, manifested in the continuous expropriation of its lands, the demolition of its homes, the expansion of colonial settlements and a harsh blockade that constitutes collective punishment. Nicaragua reiterates its recognition of the State of Palestine within the borders prior to 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, and demands its full membership in the United Nations. The Palestinian struggle is an anti-colonial struggle, a struggle for freedom and self-determination. Nicaragua reiterates its unwavering solidarity with all peoples still suffering under colonial rule. Our firm and determined support goes to the brotherly people of Puerto Rico in their legitimate claim to independence and full sovereignty in the face of U.S. colonialism, as well as to the peoples of non-self-governing territories that still carry the chains of colonialism. It is an affront to the world's conscience that more than half of the non-self-governing territories are located specifically in our Caribbean region. We express our firm solidarity with the peoples of all non-autonomous territories and all territories who around the world are denied their inalienable right to self-determination and full sovereignty. We also reaffirm our strong support for the Sahrawi people and their inalienable right to self-determination. Nicaragua advocates for continued decisive action to ensure that the 17 non-self-governing territories and other territories still remaining in the world finally see their inalienable right to self-determination and independence realized. Chair, the struggle against colonialism is a struggle for multipolarity, for a world where different political, economic and social systems exist in mutual respect. It is a struggle for peace. In the face of colonialism and imperialism, firm unity and cooperation among the countries of the Global South becomes more crucial than ever before. Our unified and strong voice is essential to counter hegemony and move towards this new multipolar world order. Nicaragua will remain standing alongside the dignified peoples of the world to eradicate colonialism in all its forms and manifestations until justice and sovereignty become a reality for all, without exception. Thank you very much.


Guatemala · Chair [1:14:03]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of Nicaragua. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of India.


India [1:14:14]:

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. India has been a leading voice and a global champion against colonialism since gaining independence in August 1947. We have worked tirelessly and contributed significantly towards the objective of eradicating colonialism. Since the creation of the United Nations, more than 80 former colonies were able to break free from the shackles of colonialism and gain full independence. These former colonies are now members of the UN family. The process, however, remains incomplete as 17 non-self-governing territories remain in various stages of the decolonization process. There is a need to conclude this process. Eradication of colonialism has been one of the priorities of the UN, as colonialism prevents the development of international economic cooperation and impedes social, cultural and economic development. Therefore, India reiterates its firm commitment to eradicating colonialism in the shortest possible time frame. I thank you, Mr.

Chairperson.


Guatemala · Chair [1:15:29]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of India, and I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of South Africa.


South Africa [1:15:38]:

Thank you, Chair. As this is the first session, we would like to congratulate you on assuming the chair. We wish you well during this session and your and yourself and the Bureau can rely on the support of South Africa. Regarding item 59, it is unfortunate that we still have to even discuss this topic in 2025. After the Second World War, when a wave of decolonization occurred, this should have been the time to eradicate colonialism completely. Nonetheless, this is where we find ourselves, and decolonization must be dealt with. The reality is that the work of the C24 although making some gradual progress in some areas, has mostly stalled. This requires us to develop innovative solutions to correct the injustices of the past. If we all accept that colonialism was an unacceptable or unethical practice, all Member States need to work together to resolve this challenge in fairness that allows for the self-determination of all peoples. It is for this reason that South Africa supports the holding of an international day against colonialism. We also support having an annual debate and discussion on this topic in order to bring about greater progress on this topic. We appreciate the proposals made by Venezuela and we will participate constructively in the negotiation of this resolution. If I may add, this agenda item and resolution is not about any one single geographic location. This is about the principle of much needed decolonization. We thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [1:17:23]:

I thank the distinguished delegate of South Africa. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Ukraine.


Ukraine [1:17:37]:

Mr. Chair, at the outset, let me congratulate you on assuming the chairmanship over this committee and assure you of Ukraine's full support and cooperation. Ukraine fully understands the important role of the Special Committee on Decolonization and of its work on decolonization. Our own history is one of a struggle against domination and denial of our sovereignty through history. We therefore stand in full solidarity with the people still living under colonial rule. Ukraine's contribution to combating colonialism is rooted in principle. As a founding member of the United Nations, we have consistently supported the declaration on the granting of independence to colonial countries and peoples. But we must be honest. Last year's new item on eradicating colonialism in all its forms was sponsored by Russian Federation, the very state waging a colonial war today against my own country. This is hypocrisy, and it's most blatant. Russia cannot speak of decolonization while it bombs cities, occupies territories, and deports children in an attempt to erase Ukrainian identity. These are not abstract violations. They are the very crime of colonialism repeated in our time. It is already four years since the Russian Federation launched its unprovoked, unjustified, and brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Since then, Russian forces have continued to destroy Ukrainian cities and villages, kill thousands of innocent people, including women and children, and consolidate terror practices in the temporarily occupied areas. This clear act of aggression violates the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, in particular the principle of sovereignty and territorial integrity of the UN member state Ukraine, and has an adverse impact across the globe. Today, we continue to exercise our inevitable right to self-defence in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter to repel Russia's aggression, aiming to ensure a comprehensive, just and lasting peace, as well as to uphold the principles of the UN Charter. And we will not allow the language of decolonization to be twisted into cover for aggression. I thank you, Mr. Chair.


Guatemala · Chair [1:20:16]:

I thank the distinguished delegate of Ukraine. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Timor-Leste.


Timor-Leste [1:20:32]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Allow me first to congratulate you on your election and assure you of Timor-Leste's full support. We reaffirm our commitment to work collaboratively in advancing the eradication of colonialism, one of the United Nations' most enduring and noble objectives. Mr. Chair, Excellencies and colleagues, colonialism remains neither a relic of the past nor confined to history books. It continues to hinder sustainable development, exacerbate social inequality and impede the full realization of human rights. We see its vestiges in unequal trade relations, resource exploitation, environmental degradation and political disenfranchisement. Addressing this systemic injustice demands sustained international commitment. Timor-Leste's journey towards hard-won independence in 2002 underscores two truths. First, that suppressed people possesses an unwavering yearning for self-determination. And second, that genuine sovereignty and the sense of dignity it confers is the cornerstone of peace, stability, and development. In addition, any struggle for independence, no matter how difficult it may be, will never cease to exist as long as the aspiration lives on. Mr. Chair, prior to this session, or the 2024 session, the eradication of colonialism was treated as part of a broader decolonization cluster by this committee. We believe that elevating it to a standalone agenda item represents progress as it allows for a more rigorous focus on the 17 non-self-governing territories, deeper analysis of the economic, social and environmental challenges they face, stronger, more measurable commitment for administering powers, synergies in the work of this Committee with the work of the Special Committee on Decolonization and the UN agenda. In this context, advancing the UN-led decolonization processes for the 17 non-self-governing territories is of paramount importance. Advancing this decolonization effort is essential for several reasons. Upholding the UN Charter by peacefully resolving outstanding territorial disputes before they escalate. Fostering sustainable development through targeted capacity building, technical assistance, and access to fair trade. Safeguarding human rights by dismantling barriers to political participation, cultural expression and justice. We must recognize the compounded vulnerabilities of the non-self-governing territories, where climate change, over-exploitation of resources and environmental harm converse with colonial legacies. We must also center the rise of women, youth and indigenous communities ensuring that the administering power live up to their legal obligations under international governance. To enhance cooperation and oversight, Timor-Leste urges the Committee to strengthen oversight mechanism for administering powers, convene inclusive dialogues that amplify the voices of the non-self-governing territories' inhabitants, integrate decolonization imperatives into the broader UN frameworks, on sustainable development, climate action, and human rights. Drawing upon our own post-conflict reconstruction and nation-building experience, we stand ready to share best practices in governance reform, reconciliation, and sustainable growth with the non-self-governing territories and their administering powers. Eradicating colonialism in all its modern forms is a central part of the United Nations mission. Timor-Leste reaffirms its steadfast commitment to its cause, inspired by our history, our vision of a world where every people exercises sovereign rights, unlocking lasting peace and prosperity. Thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [1:25:01]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of Timor-Leste. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Azerbaijan.


Azerbaijan [1:25:14]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. At the outset, I would like to congratulate you and other members of the Bureau on your election. Mr. Chair, Azerbaijan has consistently advocated for the full realization of the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and the relevant resolutions of the General Assembly on decolonization. Furthermore, Azerbaijan has been actively involved in and has contributed to international discussions on decolonization. During its 2019-2023 chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement, Azerbaijan prioritized the issue of eradication of colonialism and placed particular emphasis on the strengthening of the movement's collective voice in support of the urgency of decolonization. In 2024 and earlier this year, Azerbaijan participated in the regional seminars organized by the Special Committee on the Situation with regard to the implementation of the Declaration of the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, held in Caracas and Dili, respectively. In its written submission to the report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of General Assembly resolution 75/123, entitled Fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism, Azerbaijan emphasized its steadfast support for the decolonization efforts of the United Nations and called for the speeding up of this process towards the complete elimination of colonialism. Mr. Chair, in the context of advancing socioeconomic development, it is essential to take all possible measures to ensure that the permanent sovereignty of the peoples of the non-self-governing territories over their natural resources is fully respected and safeguarded. In recognizing the inalienable rights of the peoples of the non-self-governing territories, the General Assembly has consistently reaffirmed the principle of permanent sovereignty over natural resources as one of the indispensable prerequisites of the development. and also condemned the exploitation and plundering of natural resources and any economic activities which are detrimental to the interests of the peoples of those territories and deprive them of their legitimate rights over their natural resources. Furthermore, the General Assembly has consistently reaffirmed the value of foreign economic investment undertaken in collaboration with the peoples of the non-self-governing territories and in accordance with their wishes, in order to make a valid contribution to the socioeconomic development of the territories, especially during times of economic and financial crisis. It is also important that states, in line with the relevant resolutions of the General Assembly, including in particular Resolution 79/114 of 4 December 2024, directly and through their action in the specialized agencies and other organizations of the United Nations system, provide moral and material assistance to the peoples of the non-self-governing territories. In this context, it is essential that donor countries, multilateral organizations, and other development partners give utmost consideration to the needs of the non-self-governing territories, including by considering an increase in technical assistance for the development of infrastructure, industry, agriculture, healthcare, and education, as provided in Resolution 79/114 of 4 December 2024. Moreover, sustained attention should be given to the protection of the environment and ecological restoration in and the disproportionate impact of climate change on the non-self-governing territories. In his report on the Fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism, The Secretary-General recognized the vulnerability of these territories to climate change and advocated for adequate and sustainable resources and support to build resilience and invest in their future. Further, with a view to supporting cultural development of the non-self-governing territories, It is important to redouble efforts to ensure the return or restitution of the illegally removed or stolen cultural objects to these territories. Mr. Chair, there is a need for increased attention and efforts to ensure their full compliance with international law, the advancement of the principle of self-determination enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, and the effective implementation of the relevant resolutions of the General Assembly to achieve the total eradication of colonialism in all its forms. I would like to reaffirm Azerbaijan's resolve to continue its collaboration with the United Nations, Member States, and other relevant stakeholders with a view to accelerated progress towards that end. I thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [1:31:13]:

I thank the distinguished delegate of Azerbaijan. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Kenya.


Kenya [1:31:27]:

Thank you, Chair. I take this opportunity to congratulate you, Chair, on assuming the role of the Chair of the Fourth Committee during this 80th session of the General Assembly. We wish you success and be assured of Kenya's support. More than six decades have passed since the adoption of General Assembly Resolution 1514, the landmark declaration on the granting of independence to colonial countries and peoples. That resolution was clear that colonialism in all its forms and manifestations must be brought to unconditional end. Yet, as we meet here today, the work remains unfinished. 17 non-self-governing territories remain on the United Nations list. The right to self-determination is inalienable, anchored in the UN Charter. Kenya's own history of repression from colonial rule gives us a unique perspective. We know the cost of the abrogations and transformative power of sovereignty. For us, decolonization is not abstract. It is a lived reality, the foundation of our people, our peace, dignity, and development. The persistence of colonialism has direct consequences. Each year that passes without implementation of Resolution 1514 undermines the international law, weakens the credibility of this organization, and perpetuates injustice. Mr. Chair, colonialism today is not only territorial. Its legacies are reproduced through new forms of domination, economic dependency, unfair trade structures, crushing debt burdens, and the continued exploitation of natural resources without the free, prior, and informed consent of peoples. These neocolonial structures deny equal opportunities, entrench poverty, and undermine sustainable development, particularly in Africa and the Global South. To ignore this reality is to accept inequality as the status quo. But the United Nations was not founded on neutrality in the face of oppression. It was founded on the principle that all peoples are equal in rights and dignity. Completing the unfinished work of decolonization is therefore not just a historical duty, it is a contemporary obligation to justice and peace. Mr. Chair, neutrality in the face of colonialism is not an option. Silence or abstention cannot absolve us of our responsibility. The duty to eradicate colonialism is a collective obligation under the Charter and a test of our credibility as an international community. the 80th session of the General Assembly, Kenya calls upon all member states to recommit to the promise of Resolution 1514 to complete the process of decolonization, to retrace the legacies of domination, and to uphold sovereignty in justice and equality for all peoples. Lastly, as a symbol of solidarity, Kenya calls for the endorsing of the proposal to designate 14 December, the date of the resolution of 1514, as the International Day Against Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. This commemoration could remind us of the past struggles while mobilizing action against persisting injustice. I thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [1:35:56]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of Kenya. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Mozambique.


Mozambique [1:36:06]:

Mr. Chair, allow me to first congratulate you on your election and to assure you of Mozambique's full support and cooperation in advancing the vital work of this committee. We also commend the General Assembly for the adoption of resolution 79/115, inscribed on its agenda the item entitled "Eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations" as a standalone item on the broad agenda of this committee. Mr. Chair, the Fourth Committee is more than a forum for discussion. It is the custodian of unfinished decolonization and the guardian of peoples still denied their fundamental right to self-determination. For Mozambique, this is not an abstract principle. After enduring five centuries of colonial domination, Mozambique achieved independence on 25th June, 1975, thanks to the heroic sacrifice of our people the solidarity of the international community, and the decisive role of the United Nations in supporting the liberation movements. The fact that our founding father, Dr. Eduardo Mondlane, once served on the UN Trusteeship Council, is a vivid reminder of the organic link between our liberation struggle and the mission of this organization. His vision that freedom and dignity are universal rights, not privileges, continues to guide Mozambique's commitment to the decolonization everywhere. Mr. Chair, colonialism, regrettably, is not a relic of the past. It persists through the subjugation of peoples, the occupation of territories, coercive economic measures, exploitation of natural resources, external interference, violation of human rights, and the deliberate denial of development. These, Mr. Chair, are not natural, but man-made injustice that continue to shape the lives of millions. The case of Western Sahara, whose people remain denied their inalienable right to self-determination, symbolizes the urgency of implementing all relevant UN and African Union decisions. Mozambique commends the persistent efforts of the Secretary-General's personal envoy in maintaining dialogue channels and urges all parties to engage constructively toward a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution that respects the Saharawi people's right to determine their own future. Equally urgent is the plight of the Palestinian people, who continue to endure occupation, settlement expansion, and grave humanitarian violations, which remains one of the most painful expressions of contemporary, colonialism. Mozambique, in that regard, reaffirms that the two-state solution, Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, is the only viable path to a long and lasting peace. Mr. Chair, in 2025, Mozambique celebrates the 50 years of its independence. a milestone that invites both commemoration and critical reflection. We celebrate conscious that decolonization does not end with detainment of sovereignty. True decolonization must also confront and dismantle the enduring legacies of poverty, inequality, underdevelopment, and exclusion created by colonialism. To genuinely eradicate colonialism in our era, we must confront its modern manifestations. Coercion disguised as cooperation, political interference, masked as partnership, and other measures that deny people their right to development. Mozambique believes that eradicating colonialism requires more than periodic statements of support. It demands concrete political will, sustainable and sustained international solidarity, adequate resources for the Special Committee on Decolonization, and genuine partnership with administering powers who must fulfill their charter's obligation. It's worth recalling that the African Union has declared the year 2025 as the year of justice for Africans and people of African descent through reparation as a means to underscore the importance of reparations, reconciliation, and other forms of remembrance of the historical injustice the people of African descent has endured. Mozambique supports the proposal for adoption of 14th December as the International Day against Colonialism and all its forms of manifestation as a way to ensure that this dark chapter of humanity is not erased and its non-repetition is guaranteed. Mozambique, therefore, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter to the inalienable right of peoples to self-determination and to the central mission of this Committee. To revive the promise of decolonization is, for us, a moral and political imperative that defines the continuing relevance of the Fourth Committee in the 21st century. In conclusion, Chair, Mozambique stands ready to contribute to this unfinished mission with the same determination that secured our freedom 50 years ago. I thank you, Chair.


Guatemala · Chair [1:43:10]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of Mozambique. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Antigua and Barbuda.


Antigua and Barbuda [1:43:19]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, let me join colleagues in congratulating you and members of the Bureau in your elections to guide us through the 80th session. Please be assured of the full support of the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda. Mr. Chair, distinguished delegates, Antigua and Barbuda is pleased but yet burdened to address this committee on the agenda item 59 on the eradication of colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. We do so today as a country that has lived the experiences of colonialism, a country that has walked the path of independence and now carries a responsibility to ensure that no people anywhere is left behind under colonial domination in any of its guise. Mr. Chair, colonialism is not confined to the past. It's not confined to the dustbins of history. its structures and consequences continue to be manifested in ways that deny peoples and nations the full exercise of their sovereignty, equality, and development. Political domination, the original form of colonialism, still persists in the 17 non-self-governing territories identified by the United Nations. Yet, colonialism also manifests in new and subtle forms. In in unequal economic systems, in external control over natural resources, in the cultural and linguistical forms that diminishes identity and in patterns of of dependency that leaves no that leaves nations vulnerable to global shocks. For many states, mister chair, such as Antigua and Barbuda, colonialism is not an abstract fairy. It is it it is etched into our history of slavery and and and and sorry, it is edged into our history of slavery and inequalities that constrains our economies, our access to finance, and our ability to adapt to the climate crisis. Eradicating colonialism in all its forms means dismantling both the visible chains of political dependence and the invisible chains of systematic inequalities. Mr. Chair, the United Nations has long declared colonialism a violation of human rights and a denial of fundamental freedoms. Yet, more than six decades after the adoption of the declaration on the granting of independence to colonial countries and the peoples, colonialism has not been eradicated. This, Mr. Chair, And this organization must reaffirm that the struggle against colonialism is not complete until, one, all peoples living under the alienable domination achieves self-determination, independence, or free association in accordance with the wishes of these people. Two, The legacies of colonialism, exploitations are addressed through fair reparative measures, including economic justice, climate justice, and the recognition of cultural and historical truths. And three, no form of colonialism control, political, economic, cultural or environmental is is is tolerated in the international system. Antigua and Barbuda approaches the agenda item from a position of solidarity and responsibility. The cost of silence is severe. And we know the value of freedom once achieved. Antigua and Barbuda, therefore, calls on this committee and on the international community to, firstly, reinforce the mandate of the Special Committee on the Declaration to keep both classical and new manifestations of colonialism on the agenda. Second, strengthen Strengthen dialogue with administrative powers to ensure that self-determination processes are genuine and timely. Third, recognize that economic legacies of colonialism, exploitation, and work towards measures that correct structural inequalities, including through debt relief. equitable financing for sustainable development and climate action that takes account of historical responsibilities. And further, to promote cultural recognition, education, and the preservation of indigenous local knowledge systems that have been suppressed under colonialism. Mr. Chair, eradicating colonialism in all its forms is not only a historical duty, it is a present and future imperative. It is about ensuring that no people, no economy remains shackled by inherent inequalities, that no culture is erased by imposed hierarchies, and that no island or territory is denied the full dignity of self-determination. Antigua and Barbuda believes that the credibility of the United Nations firmly depends on carrying this struggle to its full completion.

I thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [1:51:04]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of Antigua and Barbuda. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegation of Algeria.


Algeria [1:51:14]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. At the outset, my delegation congratulates you on assuming the chairmanship of the Fourth Committee of the General Assembly. Mr. Chair, Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations is a flagrant violation of human dignity and rights of the peoples, despite the progress made by the international community. Yet there are peoples that... still wait to exercise their inalienable right of self-determination. Mr. Chair, the right to self-determination is not just a right enshrined in the Charter and international instruments. It is an inherent right to all peoples that are aspiring to freedom and dignity. The people under occupation continue to suffer political, economic, and social deprivation, and they are not taking part in shaping their future. In this connection, reiterates the following principles: 1. Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations should come to an end. All peoples should be granted their inalienable right to self-determination according to relevant UN resolutions. 2. The exploitation of natural resources of non-self-governing territories without the approval of their people is a flagrant violation of human rights and it obstructs their progress and development. Third, the international community bears the collective responsibility to providing support to struggling peoples to achieve their independence. It should be economic, political, and humanitarian support. Mr. Chair, the neocolonialism that takes more shrewd forms than the traditional colonialism is a challenge that requires vigilance from all of us. Economic dominant financial independence and independence and interference in internal affairs of states are forms that should be met decisively. In this connection, we call on the international community to do the following. First, operationalize the role of decolonization committee and providing it with necessary resources to fulfill its mandate. Second, multinational corporations that use the resources of occupied territories without the approval of their people should be held accountable. Third, providing educational and outreach programs to the peoples in these non-self-governing territories to claim the right. In conclusion, Algeria reiterates that decolonization is not a political issue. It is a humanitarian and civilized cause. A world free of colonialism is more just and fair. And the world order based on justice and peace will not be achieved until there are people under occupation. Therefore, we call on all member states to unify their ranks in addressing this challenge and to work genuinely to achieve this noble objective that is a world free of colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


Guatemala · Chair [1:54:35]:

I thank

the distinguished delegate of Algeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Namibia.


Namibia [1:54:44]:

Chair, we congratulate you on your election, as well as the rest of the members of the Bureau. Namibia takes the floor to address this general debate on agenda item 59, eradicating colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. On the 10th of December 2020, the General Assembly adopted resolution 75/123, entitled Fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism, in which the Assembly inter alia declared the period 2021 to 2030 as a fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism, and called upon Member States to intensify their efforts to continue to implement the Plan of Action for the Second International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism. This Committee holds a significant place in the global community, in that it holds the promise of freedom for the hundreds of thousands of people who are still living under some form of colonialism. Before this very committee, in 1959, a Namibian petitioner, Borumba Kerena, presented the case of Namibia, at the time under apartheid rule by the then South African apartheid regime. Kerena's petition was amongst the first before the United Nations to call for an end to and the eradication of all forms of colonialism in Namibia. About 30 years later, his petition bore fruit in that Namibia became an independent country. Sadly, in 2025, this Committee remains a witness to hearing about colonial practices around the world, as petitioners of non-self-governing territories will address or continue to address its meetings. One such non-self-governing territory is Western Sahara, the last colony in Africa. The question remains whether their petitions will remain mere statements that will fill the halls of the United Nations, or will their petitions resonate in the hearts of those sitting in these chambers to find lasting solutions. The time is now for this committee to uphold its moral obligation. Namibia supports the designation of 14 December as the International Day on the Eradication of Colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. I thank you.


Guatemala · Chair [1:57:32]:

I thank the distinguished delegation of Namibia. The Committee has heard the last speaker in the general debate on this item. The Committee has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of this agenda item. I would like to recall to delegations that we will take action on any draft proposal submitted under this item on Thursday, 16 October. The next plenary meeting of the Committee will be convened on Monday, 6 October, in this conference room at 3 p.m. And I would like to inform delegations that the President of the General Assembly, Her Excellency Annalena Baerbock, has informed the Bureau that she wishes to address the Committee during the meeting. We will then hear an introduction to the C-24 report and a statement by the C-24 Chair on the latest C-24 session. Thereafter, we will approve the requests to petition on non-self-governing territories, followed by the general debate under the decolonization cluster. The meeting is adjourned.