Baku Initiative Group highlights colonial policy issues at UN Human Rights Council session

Executive Director of the Baku Initiative Group (BIG) Abbas Abbasov has addressed the 58th session of the Human Rights Council at the UN office in Geneva, where he discussed the social and economic issues stemming from colonial policy.

During an interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur, Abbasov emphasised that the rights of individuals are not being protected in France's colonial territories, such as New Caledonia (Kanaky) and French Guiana, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

He pointed out that people in these regions face significant challenges in accessing healthcare, education, and other essential social services. Abbasov further noted that the fundamental human rights enshrined in international documents—such as the respect for human dignity from birth, personal freedom, independence, and the right to education—are not being upheld in these territories.

The Baku Initiative Group (BIG) is a non-governmental organisation based in Azerbaijan that focuses on promoting human rights, peace, and social justice. It works to raise awareness of global social and economic issues, particularly those related to post-colonial challenges. BIG also advocates for the protection of human dignity and the improvement of social services such as healthcare and education. The group engages in international dialogue through forums such as the United Nations Human Rights Council, where it addresses concerns about the impact of colonial policies and other human rights violations.

By Naila Huseynova