Baku Initiative Group exposes France’s role in colonial-era hunger Photo

The Executive Director of the Baku Initiative Group (BIG), Abbas Abbasov, has highlighted the severe food insecurity affecting regions that have experienced French colonial policies.

Speaking at the 58th regular session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Abbasov addressed the impact of colonial history on indigenous communities’ access to nutritious food, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Abbasov underscored how local food industries in these territories have been devastated, leaving populations entirely reliant on external resources. He pointed to the alarming levels of poverty, particularly in Mayotte and French Guiana, where malnutrition is a pressing issue, especially among children.

During an interactive dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur, he stressed the urgency of addressing these challenges. He also referenced Article 11 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, which recognises the fundamental right to adequate food, urging immediate action to rectify the situation.

Moreover, on March 11, Abbasov highlighted social and economic issues arising from colonial policies.

During an interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur, Abbasov criticised the lack of protection for human rights in France’s colonial territories, including New Caledonia (Kanaky) and French Guiana. He pointed out challenges in accessing healthcare, education, and other essential services, stressing that fundamental human rights are not upheld in these regions.

BIG, an Azerbaijan-based NGO, advocates for human rights, social justice, and post-colonial issues. The organisation actively engages in international forums to raise awareness and push for improved social services worldwide.

By Aghakazim Guliyev