In 2024, the world witnessed the tragic and unjust events in Kanaky, where French authorities violently suppressed peaceful protests of the Kanak nation, executive director of the Baku Initiative Group (BIG) Abbas Abbasov said at the Congress of the International Front of Decolonization, Report informs.
Abbasov noted that this brutal crackdown including the loss of 13 innocent lives and over 200 injuries once again demonstrated the urgent intervention and solidarity of the world community on the issue of ending colonialism.
He stressed that the choice to hold the meeting in Kanaky is of profound symbolic significance.
“I proudly would like to remind you that the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev publicly condemned the crimes against the Kanak people and expressed his support to the colonized regions. Moreover, the Baku Initiative Group immediately sent letters to the heads of international organizations and publicized the atrocities against the Kanak people. As a result of our joint efforts, the world community soon became aware of these atrocities,” Abbasov noted.
He emphasized that whatever happening in the colonized regions is accompanied by gross human rights violations: “We need international contribution to address systemic oppression and restore justice. Freedom is not easy to achieve and requires sacrifices.”
“I take great pride in highlighting the support of the Baku İnitiative Group since the beginning of the Establishment of the İnternational Front of Decolonization. The Front is a testament to the power of solidarity, providing a platform for dialogue, action, and the reinforcement of our collective mission. Today’s Congress presents a valuable opportunity to discuss the consequences of colonialism, the fight against neocolonialism, global challenges, and of course possible solutions. I believe the discussions at this event will contribute to mobilizing collective efforts in the fight against colonialism.
As we move forward, our struggle is not just for today, but for future generations who will inherit the legacy of our actions. We must continue to stand united, not only in our shared fight for justice and equality but also in our unwavering commitment to the recognition of the inherent dignity of all peoples. Let this be a call to action for each and every one of us—an invitation to continue the struggle for a world free from colonial domination, where all peoples are empowered to determine their own future,” the BIG head said.
