Baku: The Baku Initiative Group (BIG) has expressed support for the warning issued by the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to France concerning the self-determination rights of the Kanak people and alterations to the electoral body in Kanaky, APA reports. The group is urging France to comply with the Committee’s appeals immediately.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the BIG’s statement emphasizes that any political or administrative changes regarding Kanaky must have the consent of the Kanak people, highlighting this as a fundamental requirement under international law and the decolonization process. The statement underscores the importance of the Noumea Accord as a framework for recognizing Kanak identity and determining their political future, arguing that any unilateral interference disrupts the established political-legal balance.
The Baku Initiative Group condemns France’s steps to expand the electorate with settlers from abroad, viewing it as an attempt to weaken the indigenous population’s political will and alter the demographic balance. The organization supports the UN Committee’s call for an independent investigation into allegations of excessive force during the May 2024 protests and concerns about the transfer of Kanak human rights defenders to mainland French prisons.
The BIG notes that the international response to its appeal demonstrates growing recognition of Kanak rights. According to the group, France’s initiatives without Kanak consent reflect contemporary colonial governance, and the future of Kanaky should involve the Kanak people’s real and effective participation.
The group has submitted an alternative report to the UN Human Rights Committee, raising issues with France such as the deployment of the GIGN to Kanaky and allegations of excessive force. The BIG urges France to respect the Noumea Accord’s spirit and proceed with political processes based on Kanak consent.
The Baku Initiative Group concludes by reaffirming solidarity with the Kanak people and calling on the international community to address France’s policies in Kanaky.