Fiji has reaffirmed its commitment to decolonisation but raised concerns over the new United Nations resolution, calling for a more focused approach.
Fiji is one of two Pacific countries who are members of the Special Committee on Decolonisation or C-24 and has been a consistent voice in addressing the issue of decolonisation.
Through the C-24 and the Fourth Committee, Fiji aligns with the positions undertaken by the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), in its support for the annual resolution on Decolonisation entitled ‘Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples.’
On 15 October 2024, Fiji delivered an MSG joint statement at the plenary of the Fourth Committee reaffirming the Groups support, including its update on the regional processes on New Caledonia as consistent with the 53rd Pacific Island Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting communique.
The new Resolution presented at the Fourth Committee on 17th October, expands the substance of the annual resolution to include sensitive issues that are beyond the mandate of the C-24 and the Fourth Committee, and would benefit from a separate process, in recognition of its significance.
The Fiji Government reiterated its support of the regional position of the Pacific Island Forum, and the Melanesian Spearhead Group on decolonisation and self-determination, as enshrined in the UN Charter.
The Fiji Permanent Mission in New York is working with the Secretariat to clarify this matter within its process, and this will be reflected in the Committees report to the General Assembly for its’ consideration.
