Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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February 16, 2026 Human rights
The United Nations continues to strive to complete the process of decolonization worldwide, noting the significant progress of recent decades. This was stated in a statement by UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered at the opening of the Special Committee on Decolonization on Monday.
Courtenay Rattray, the UN Secretary-General's Chief of Staff, delivered a speech on behalf of the UN Secretary-General. He recalled that decolonization has remained one of the Organization's key objectives since its inception. The UN was conceived as a platform where states interact as equals, not as a system of "rulers and ruled."
Since 1945, more than a hundred countries have gained independence, and today, as noted, more and more people are exercising their right to self-determination. However, the consequences of colonialism continue to be felt – in the form of economic inequality, racism, and the limited participation of some peoples in international decision-making.
Currently, there are still in the world 17 Non-Self-Governing TerritoriesThe UN believes that their future should be determined through inclusive dialogue between representatives of the territories themselves, the administering powers, and UN Member States, taking into account the unique needs of each of these territories and in accordance with the UN Charter and the decisions of the General Assembly.
The speech places particular emphasis on the role of youth, which, according to the Secretary-General, must become the driving force in shaping a more just and inclusive future.
Climate change has been identified as a key challenge. Most Non-Self-Governing Territories are small islands, which are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events. The UN has called for issues of resilience and adaptation to climate change to be placed at the center of international discussions.
Last December, the UN celebrated the first International Day against Colonialism in All Its Forms and ManifestationsThe day served as a reminder that, despite the progress made, the work of completing decolonization is far from complete.
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