The Fijian government has reaffirmed its commitment to the regional stance of the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) and the Melanesian Spearhead Group on decolonization and self-determination, as established in the UN Charter. This announcement follows Fiji’s unique position as the only UN member state to vote against the “Declaration on Granting Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples.”
In an official statement, the government noted that the Fiji Permanent Mission in New York is currently collaborating with the Secretariat to clarify its position regarding this matter, which will be incorporated into the Committee’s report for consideration by the General Assembly.
Fiji is one of only two Pacific Island nations serving on the “Special Committee on Decolonisation” or “C-24” and has consistently advocated for decolonization efforts. Through its work with the “C-24” and the “Fourth Committee,” Fiji supports the resolutions related to decolonization, including the annual resolution titled “Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples.”
On the 15th of this month, Fiji presented a joint statement during the plenary session of the Fourth Committee, reiterating the Melanesian Spearhead Group’s support and providing updates on regional processes concerning New Caledonia, aligning with the conclusions reached at the Leaders Meeting.
A new resolution brought before the Fourth Committee on the 17th broadens the focus of the annual resolution to encompass sensitive topics that extend beyond the “C-24” and “Fourth Committee” mandates, suggesting that they would benefit from a separate process due to their importance.