The Fijian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the positions held by the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) and the Melanesian Spearhead Group regarding decolonization and self-determination, as outlined in the UN Charter. This declaration follows Fiji’s unique decision as the sole 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 Fijian Permanent Mission in New York is engaging with the Secretariat to clarify the situation, which will subsequently be included in the Committee’s report to the General Assembly for consideration.
Fiji is one of only two Pacific Island nations that are part of the “Special Committee on Decolonisation” or “C-24,” consistently advocating for decolonization issues. Through its participation in “C-24” and the “Fourth Committee,” Fiji aligns itself with the actions of the Pacific Islands Forum and the Melanesian Spearhead Group, supporting the annual resolution concerning decolonization titled “Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples.”
On October 15, Fiji presented a joint statement at the plenary of the Fourth Committee, reaffirming the support of the Melanesian Spearhead Group and providing an update on regional processes related to New Caledonia, consistent with the Leaders Meeting communiqué.
Furthermore, a new resolution introduced at the Fourth Committee on October 17 broadened the scope of the annual resolution to cover sensitive topics that fall outside the mandates of both the “C-24” and the “Fourth Committee.” This suggests the need for a separate process, acknowledging the importance of these issues.