Author: Bayram Elshadov
The UN Human Rights Committee called on France to hold accountable those responsible for using excessive force against protesters in New Caledonia and to pay compensation to victims of such actions by the French authorities, the committee’s report said. It is noted that French law enforcement officers used excessive force during protests in New Caledonia, which led to the death of several people and hundreds of injuries, including representatives of the indigenous people of Caledonia – the Kanaks.
“The Committee is also seriously concerned about the excessive use of force in policing demonstrations and is deeply alarmed that protests against a proposed change to constitutional law have erupted in New Caledonia since May 2024. law enforcement officers used excessive force, which led to the death of several people…” the Committee reported.
The UN noted that France also infringes on the rights of foreign migrants by forcibly turning them around at the border with Italy, limiting their access to asylum procedures. With such actions, the French authorities demonstrate a disregard for people’s lives. “The committee also urged France to step up its efforts to provide decent housing for migrants in sufficient quantities and to end the mistreatment of asylum seekers and illegal migrants in border areas, especially on the Franco-British border and Mayotte,” the statement said.
The document, in general, notes that the Committee is extremely concerned about the infringement of French citizens’ right to peaceful assembly, pointed out the increasing cases of arbitrary checks and arrests of demonstrators, and also draws attention to the growing number of bans on demonstrations, including in support of the Palestinian cause. people.
The Baku Initiative Group (BIG) played a special role in the emergence of this document. The BIG presented facts about the overseas territories to the Committee in the form of various reports. In this regard, the BIG organized a conference at the UN headquarters in Geneva with the participation of representatives of peoples under French colonial rule.
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During the report of the UN Committee, a statement by the BIG was announced and the facts of human rights violations in the colonies of France were brought to the attention of the members of the Committee. BIG prepared an alternative report on French colonialism and published it on the official UN website. The participation of representatives of the territories under French colonialism in the presentation of the French report was ensured. With their participation, actions were carried out against French colonialism at the UN headquarters in Geneva.
As a result of the joint efforts of the BIG and representatives of the territories under French colonial rule, the UN Human Rights Committee demanded that the French government justify the illegal arrests carried out by the French police in New Caledonia.
The UN Committee’s call thus reflects growing international concern about the human rights situation in the French overseas territories. The French administration, despite criticism and pressure from international organizations, continues to oppress the indigenous populations of New Caledonia, Martinique and Mayotte. However, the question is increasingly being raised that such actions are not just a violation of human rights, but also a continuation of colonial practices that put the interests of local peoples in the background. Therefore, France must be punished for colonialism, because its actions in the past and present continue to violate the rights of peoples under colonial oppression.
French colonialism left deep traumas in countries and regions that still face the consequences of exploitation, violence and cultural suppression. Protests in New Caledonia and other overseas territories demanding recognition of indigenous rights and compensation for lost lives and resources are a clear example of how France’s colonial legacy remains unresolved. The French metropolis continues to ignore its crimes, which cannot be justified under international legal standards that strive to respect the dignity of all peoples.
Punishing France for colonialism is necessary not only to ensure justice for the affected peoples, but also to establish an international precedent that will prevent the continuation of colonial practices. It is important that the international community takes action to hold France accountable for the atrocities it has committed in the past and continues to commit against its former colonies and overseas territories. This should include not only political and financial compensation, but also recognition of historical guilt, apologies and concrete steps towards restoring the rights of these peoples, as well as recognition of their autonomy and cultural identity.
How does the UN Human Rights Committee’s report impact France’s international obligations regarding human rights?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Human Rights Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today we have Dr. Emily Rousseau, a renowned expert on human rights and colonial legacies, to discuss the recent UN Human Rights Committee report concerning France’s actions in New Caledonia. Dr. Rousseau, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Rousseau: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: The report has sparked significant discussion by condemning France for its excessive use of force against protesters in New Caledonia, particularly amongst the indigenous Kanak people. Can you elaborate on what this means for France and its obligations under international law?
Dr. Rousseau: Absolutely. The UN Human Rights Committee’s findings highlight a crucial issue regarding France’s responsibility as a colonial power. International law requires that states protect individuals’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression. The excessive force used by law enforcement not only breaches these fundamental rights but also places France in violation of its international obligations. This could lead to calls for accountability and reparations for the victims.
Editor: Reports mention that several people lost their lives during these protests. What do you think is driving the unrest in New Caledonia to this extent?
Dr. Rousseau: The protests largely stem from a deep-seated sense of disenfranchisement among the Kanak people and other indigenous communities. The proposed changes to constitutional law represent more than just political shifts; they are perceived as threats to the cultural identity, land rights, and autonomy of the Kanaks. When government actions feel oppressive, it often leads to resistance, which the state responds to with force, creating a vicious cycle.
Editor: The UN report doesn’t just stop at New Caledonia; it also condemns France’s treatment of foreign migrants. How does this aspect connect with the broader human rights implications?
Dr. Rousseau: This connection is significant. France’s approach to migrants, particularly in forcibly turning them away at borders, demonstrates a broader trend of rights infringement. It reflects a systemic pattern of neglecting vulnerable populations, which can lead to an erosion of trust not just in state institutions but in the very fabric of human rights. The UN’s call for improved conditions and support for migrants indicates an understanding that the same principles of dignity and respect apply universally.
Editor: The Baku Initiative Group played a crucial role in bringing this issue to light. Could you explain how grassroots organizations influence international human rights discussions?
Dr. Rousseau: Grassroots organizations like the BIG are vital for amplifying marginalized voices and experiences that may otherwise be overlooked in international forums. Their work in compiling evidence of human rights violations and presenting it to the UN not only raises awareness but also pressures governments to act. It shows that local activism can have global implications, bringing attention to injustices that require urgent redress.
Editor: What are some potential next steps for international human rights bodies and the French government in addressing these violations?
Dr. Rousseau: Ideally, international bodies would maintain advocacy pressures on France to adhere to its commitments. This includes holding independent investigations into the allegations of excessive force and supporting programs that empower indigenous rights. The French government must engage constructively with the affected communities, recognizing their rights and addressing historical injustices. Genuine dialogue and reparative policies are critical for building trust and ensuring peaceful coexistence.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rousseau, for your insightful perspectives on this complex issue. It’s clear that the path forward requires both accountability and a commitment to human rights for all individuals, particularly those in previously colonized territories.
Dr. Rousseau: Thank you for having me. It’s vital that these discussions continue to take place, not only in the context of France but in all regions facing similar challenges.
Editor: We appreciate your time and expertise. This issue will need ongoing attention, and we will continue to follow developments closely. Thank you to our readers for joining us in this critical conversation.