77th United Nations General Assembly

Special Political and Decolonisation Committee

(Fourth Committee)

Items 51-61: Non-Self Governing Territories and Decolonisation

INDIA STATEMENT

October 13,  2022

Mr Chairperson, 

I take this opportunity to congratulate you on behalf of my delegation on your election as Chair of the 4^th Committee and assure you of our full support.

As a former colony, India has always been in the forefront of the struggle against colonialism and apartheid since its own independence over seven decades ago.

In 1962 India was elected the first Chair of the Decolonization Committee (Committee of 24) that was established to monitor the implementation of the 1960 Declaration and to make recommendations on its application. We reaffirm our commitment to actively support this important Committee to meet its objectives.

Since the creation of the United Nations, more than 80 former colonies have gained their independence and joined the family of United Nations. However, the process of decolonization that began with our own independence remains unfinished. 

We are now in the Fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism. There still remain 17 Non-Self-Governing Territories, which are in various stages of the decolonization process on the Agenda of this Committee. We need to step up our efforts to conclude this long-drawn process. 

Since the principle of self determination, as considered on the agreed Agenda of this Committee, continues to be deliberately misinterpreted and misused by a particular delegation, it is pertinent to highlight once again that the United Nations has established the principle of self-determination as a vehicle for the worthy cause of decolonisation of the seventeen Non Self-Governing Territories on the agenda of this Committee, and not as a justification for undermining the territorial integrity of any Member State. 

India strongly believes that pursuing a pragmatic approach towards Decolonization would surely lead to fulfillment of legitimate wishes of the people of Non-Self Governing Territories. We must also strive to enhance cooperation with international agencies and actors and channelize resources for the 17 Non-Self Governing Territories. This would surely enable them to build capacities in their just and noble quest towards achieving long-cherished goals.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.