The Fiji Government has responded to widespread public criticism regarding its decision to vote against a United Nations resolution focused on decolonization. Fiji was the sole nation to oppose the draft resolution, with 99 countries in favor and 61 abstaining.
This draft resolution was reviewed by the Special Committee on Decolonization (C-24) in June and presented at the United Nations General Assembly’s Fourth Committee on October 17. In an official statement, the Fiji Government highlighted its role as one of only two Pacific nations on the C-24 and emphasized its commitment to addressing decolonization.
The government noted that through its participation in C-24 and the Fourth Committee, Fiji supports the positions of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) as well as the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) regarding the annual resolution on decolonization, titled ‘Implementation of the declaration on the granting of independence to Colonial countries and peoples.’
Additionally, Fiji delivered a joint statement from the MSG during the plenary session of the Fourth Committee on October 15, reaffirming the group’s support and sharing updates on regional processes in New Caledonia, consistent with communications from the 53rd PIF Leaders Meeting.
The new resolution proposed on October 17 broadens the scope of previous resolutions to address sensitive topics that may require a separate procedural approach, acknowledging their importance. The Fiji Government reiterated its backing of the positions held by the PIF and MSG on decolonization and self-determination, principles enshrined in the UN Charter.
Furthermore, the Fiji Permanent Mission in New York is collaborating with the UN Secretariat to provide clarification on this issue, which will be included in the committee’s report to the General Assembly for further deliberation.