BIG condemns France's plans for constitutional changes in New Caledonia At UN hearing

On the margins of the 142nd session of the UN Human Rights Committee, a meeting of concerned parties was held in Geneva on October 21, ahead of France's presentation on the implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

The Baku Initiative Group (BIG), along with delegations from New Caledonia and French Polynesia, participated in the discussions, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

Abbas Abbasov, Executive Director of the Baku Initiative Group, condemned the illegal referendum conducted by France in New Caledonia and the proposed constitutional changes to the electoral code that have sparked widespread protests. He highlighted the tragic consequences of these actions, noting that more than 10 individuals lost their lives and approximately 400 were injured.

Abbasov also addressed the health impacts resulting from France's nuclear tests in Polynesia, emphasizing the local population's aspirations for independence. He called for a new referendum to be held under UN supervision and urged the withdrawal of French military forces from New Caledonia. Additionally, he demanded compensation for the nuclear tests conducted in French Polynesia and recognition of the territory's right to self-determination.

The Baku Initiative Group has submitted an alternative report detailing France's colonial policies, which was published on the official website of the UN Human Rights Committee.

By Vafa Guliyeva