Azerbaijan champions independence for French-colonized territories BIG leads the charge for decolonization

On July 17-18, 2024, Baku played host to the first Congress of Independence Movements from French-colonized territories. Organized by the People's Union for the Liberation of Guadeloupe with support from the Baku Initiative Group (BIG), the congress brought together leaders from over 15 political parties and independence movements spanning Corsica, Melanesia, Polynesia, the Caribbean, and the Antilles islands. These regions, still experiencing French colonialism, found a platform in Baku to voice their grievances and strategize for independence.

Three organizations from the Dutch colonies of Bonaire and Sint Maarten joined as guests of honor. The congress offered an opportunity for the participating parties to coordinate efforts, creating a unified platform to combat French colonialism and explore effective strategies for self-determination.

Azerbaijan’s role in the independence drive

Azerbaijan’s support for the independence movements of French-colonized territories is rooted in its staunch opposition to neo-colonialism, which it views as a scourge incompatible with principles of justice, respect for human rights, and equality. As the chair of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), Azerbaijan has consistently raised issues related to colonialism, garnering wide support and gratitude from countries and peoples who have suffered under colonial rule.

Azerbaijan's opposition to neo-colonialism is also influenced by France's policy of pressure and discrimination against Muslims, including Islamophobic campaigns under the guise of secularism. France has adopted legislative acts and political decisions that restrict the rights and freedoms of Muslims, with mosques, Muslim cultural centers, and cemeteries facing various forms of desecration.

Practical steps from the Baku Initiative Group

The Baku Initiative Group (BIG) emerged as the lead agency in organizing events to support the independence movements. During the July 17-18 Baku conference, BIG implemented several practical steps, including launching programs for students from French colonies to study at Azerbaijani universities. This initiative aims to empower young people from these regions by providing them with educational opportunities that can aid in their fight for independence.

Voices from the colonies

Participants at the congress expressed their gratitude to Azerbaijan and BIG for providing a platform to discuss their struggles. Rod Arrindell, a member of the St. Martin's delegation, highlighted the dual colonial oppression by France and the Netherlands:

“We are grateful to the Baku Initiative Group for allowing us to tell you and the world about our situation. Judging by what France and the Netherlands show, one might get the impression that we are happy with this situation. But we are not. Our people have no voice, our young people are forced to study the languages of the colonizers. We don't have the opportunity to fully express ourselves.”

Jean Jacob Bissep, Secretary General of the Popular Union for the Liberation of Guadeloupe, emphasized the importance of bringing the truth to the international community. He noted, “The main problem for each of the territories dependent on France is assimilation, and we intend to achieve independence. In this regard, we very much appreciate the role of Azerbaijan, as it is currently the only country that has extended a helping hand to us.”

Environmental and cultural impact

The congress also addressed the long-term environmental and cultural impacts of French colonialism. For centuries, France exploited the natural resources of its colonies without regard for environmental consequences. Azerbaijan, as the chair of the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), plans to raise these issues at the international level.

Isabelle Kaloi, a member of the Congress of New Caledonia, criticized France's ongoing oppression: “Everyone knows what has happened in New Caledonia since May 13. By visiting Azerbaijan and attending this congress, we firmly declare that the actions of the French state against us are unacceptable, and we strongly condemn it. The suppression of our rights is inadmissible and unacceptable.”

Building international solidarity

The Baku Initiative Group vowed to support the independence movements not only through scholarships but also by addressing the environmental issues caused by colonial exploitation. Abbas Abbasov, head of the Baku Initiative Group, noted that invitations to the COP29 conference were extended to all participants of the current convention.

Abbasov also highlighted the illegal arrests and tortures of independence movement members by French police, stressing the need for international solidarity and support for political prisoners' families.

Mickael Forrest, New Caledonia's Minister for Foreign Affairs, called for strengthened platforms and structured political activities: “We must strengthen our platforms, engage in discussions. We need to structure our political activities in a way that allows us to respond to challenges.”

Establishing the International Liberation Front (ILF)

The congress culminated in the establishment of the International Front for the Liberation of the last French colonies, a united front aimed at coordinating activities and raising global awareness about the struggles of French-colonized territories. The authorized officials of the 17 French and Dutch colonies present at the congress signed the final Declaration on the establishment of the International Liberation Front, which denounced France's repressive policies and emphasized Azerbaijan's role in the decolonization process.

Launch of the ILF website

The website of the newly-established International Liberation Front was launched during the congress, providing a centralized platform for the independence movements to coordinate their efforts and share their stories with the world.

Conclusion

The Baku congress marked a significant step forward for the independence movements from French-colonized territories. With Azerbaijan’s support, these movements are gaining international attention and building a unified front to combat colonialism.

The establishment of the International Liberation Front and the launch of its website are critical milestones in the ongoing struggle for self-determination and independence. The solidarity shown by Azerbaijan and the Baku Initiative Group underscores the importance of international cooperation in the fight against neo-colonialism, paving the way for a future where all peoples can enjoy freedom and equality.