US hosts event on combating colonialism organized by Baku Initiative Group

An event dedicated to the fight against colonialism was held in New York City, US, with the joint organization of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Baku Initiative Group (BIG), Report informs.

Representatives of peoples who fought against colonialism - from the territories under the colonial rule of France and the Netherlands, as well as Corsica, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Maohi Nui (French Polynesia), Kanaky (New Caledonia), leaders of independence movements, decolonization experts and researchers participated at the event.

Participants noted that most of the bloody crimes of the colonial history were committed by France, and the slave trade that France had actively engaged in is one of the most shameful pages of humanity. Millions of Africans were victims of this country's slave policy at different times of history.

It was noted that France abused its status as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and violently annexed the territories of other countries to its territory in gross violation of the norms and principles of international law.

The representatives also pointed out that France has been ignoring the demands of international organizations and people fighting for independence for many years, and continues its policy of neo-colonialism.

In the discussions, the consequences of the policy of colonialism were evaluated from different aspects. It was noted that as a result of this dirty policy, not only the sovereignty of the countries was restricted, but also their resources were looted.

It was stated that especially women suffered from this policy, they were subjected to physical and spiritual violence and were exploited at different stages of their lives. It is regrettably noted that in the 21st century, such women continue to be subjected to slavery in the colonies.

During the event, leaders of the independence movements from Corsica, French Guiana, Guadalupe, Martinique, and Maohi Nui talked about the situation in their countries under French colonial rule and called on the world community to convey the truth about the situation in those territories.

The participants drew attention to the importance of systematic and consistent work and organization in the direction of the elimination of colonialism and thanked BIG for its position in highlighting the problems of places suffering from colonization.

The contributions of Azerbaijan to the struggle against the decolonization process during the chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement were mentioned in the speeches.

The UN headquarters in New York will host a conference within the framework of the annual meeting of the Special Committee - C24, which was established on the implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonized Countries and Peoples by the initiative and organization of the Baku Initiative Group.