ited Nations 945th ,ENERAL PLENABY MEETING

SSEMBLY Tuesday, 13 December 1960, fifTEENTH SESSION at 3 p.m. cial Records NEW YORK

CONTENTS Add.l-6, of which Somalia is a sponsor, or, for that page matter, to any other draft resolution which calls for the eradication of colonialism from the face of the I item 87: earth. 'In this matter my delegation speaks for a claration on the granting of independence people which, like so many other peoples represented to colonial countries and peoples (continued) 1247 here, is qualified by experience to make an expert ! report on the results of colonialism. Unfortunately, pr.pÿesident: Mr. Frederick H. BOLAND (Ireland). we of Somalia can testify from our personal knowl- edge to the suffering which is the invariable con- comitant of colonial rule. The absence in our country AGENDA ITEM 87 until very recently of vigourous measures to achieve progress in such vital areas as education, health, aration on the granting of independence to colonial transportation, communications and agricultural and countries and peoples (continued) commercial development is a typical legacy of co- lonialism which has left its mark in the poverty and The PRESIDENT: I call on the representative of destitution which is the lot of so many of our country- Union of South Africa in exercise of the right of men. We know too the heavy hand of colonialism in the unfortunate division of the Somali people into five separate territories, which artificial division has in- .Mr. FOURIE (Union of South Africa): We have listened carefully to a debate which has lasted for evitably compounded the social and economic prob- lems of our people. days. We were disappointed that most of those participated in this debate concentrated only on 7. My delegation would, therefore, be not only the type of colonialism. It was our hope that more first to call for, but also the first to lend support to i, attention would have been given also to the subjuga- anyone who advocates the end of colonialism in all its of other peoples in other continents by conquest. manifestations. In view of this, the Soviet Union has It is interesting to fiote that Some of those who earned both our congratulations and our gratitude for having taken the initiative to secure the inclusion of r criticized the old type of colonialism this item in the agenda of this Assembly. who, I might mention in passing, also referred to country, contrary to the rules of procedure, did 8. We are at a moment in history when all the con- look under their own carpets to find glaring at ditions are ripe, as Toynbee has said, "for an age of the new type of colonialism. Furthermore, some welfare for all"; but this is genuinely true only be- who also showed such keen interest in the cause it is also an age when there may be freedom of my country, have been using complimentary for all. The technological, intellectual and political in referring to the attitude of a contempo- developments of the centuries have combined to make

imperialist Power. I can only conclude that they possible the emancipation of mankind from economic J ; no concern for those who live in subjugation as well as political bondage. In the economic sense, i ! the new type of colonialism or imperialism. this was a bondage dictated in the past not only by man's inhumanity to man but also by the absence of ! Many parts of the forty-three-Power draftresolu- [A/L.323 and Add.l-6] are acceptable to my those technical developments which have now made possible the creation of an economy of abundance, In fact, some have been taken verbatim the Charter. There are, however, certain other freeing maÿ from the unremitting toil which for so long has been his inescapable lot. :4 which we cannot support, and it is therefore !, for my delegation to go along with this 9. It is too well known to require elaboration here resolution in .its entirety. I may add that, in our that in mastering the forces of nature in the atomic this draft resolution must be regarded as a age, man also has acquired a power of mutual annihi- unit; it stands or falls as a whole. This also lation. The incalculable powers of destruction at our ', ,: to the other two drafts before the Assembly disposal have deprived us of the ability of making 02, A/L.324/Rev.2]. My delegation does not, whatever choice we would like to make in pursuance .,:, propose to vote on the constituent para- of world power politics. History and the atomic age ! if these are put to the vote separately. We dletate our answers to many questions, not excluding !i!ii!i that you cannot take any of these parts out of the that of colonialism. We cannot afford the development Context. or continuation, of unrest and conflict in any part of I was here on the rostrum, I thought I might the world today. The result of such situations is VOte. clearly to intensify the rivalries existing between the great Powers today and the setting up of rival claims OMAR (Somalia): I should like to open this and positions on the part of other nations that may by saying that my delegation is happy to be tempted to see in these areas of instability the full support to draft resolution A/L.323 and opportunity for advancing their own views, ff not 1247 A/PV.945 1248 General Assembly- Fifteenth Session- Plenary Meetings

their own interests. The rapid and orderly settlement of the claims of colonial peoples is indispensable if These quotations are enough to show that ^,ÿ.ÿ"'- we are to avoid a repetition of the tragic circum- in Portuguese Africastill live under ÿ.ÿÿciea ÿs conditions. ÿuauraaÿ stances which prevail today in the Congo and which have thus far defied solution by all the nations as- 13. My delegation also cannot refrain from a brie sembled at this session. Yet what has happened in the reference to one of the most tragic demonstra,ÿ f Congo may be only a minor catastrophe in compari- the scourge of eolonialism.ÿe refeÿ • .... ÿ°as 0f son with what may yet come in other areas of the ble situation in ÿ Algeria, where the war against ^ world. Algerian\ÿ ...... people : , :¢ÿs :ÿ: now ...... entered Its SeF " tÿ !EverW effort made to treat theÿ Alÿe;ÿenth Year ; 10. In South Africa we still hear the plea of domestic i ' ' b -L.I.ÿI.II C t jurisdiction invoked to preclude discussion of the l erent fro any o er mani station of i'ÿm, m regaro Algeria and its people a .... ÿ.Unlal. deteriorating situation there, a situation which in- part of metropolitan France, to brl;ÿ ab..:a ÿeÿal volves the fate of millions of oppressed people. It would be tragic enough if only the members of the ; memberment of Algeria which we regard as one and self-styled amaster race" were the insane victims of ;! indivisible, and to deny to its people the right to self. their own policies, or if the victims included only the determination under free conditions--all of these innocent millions under their immediate control; but efforts are doomed, to failure and can result o Y iÿ perpetuation of the tragedy which has alreadynÿer the obvious truth is that the explosion thattakes place ;ÿ,s!fiÿd .ÿr tgo long,,_ ; ...... , ...... ,. 7 in the Union of South Africa, if we are unable to pre- vent it, may rock not only that country but the entire 14. The new cry that an African country, be it Al- world. The West as a whole bears the moral onus of geria or that often-forgotten part of Somaliland known the inhuman practices of that most spiritually hack- in colonial terminology as the French Somali Coast, ward of all States, of those who have chosen to set can become part of France is unacceptable to us Africans. themselves "apart" from the stream of humanity as a whole. 15. The problem of Algeria is in no fuudamental re. 11. We do not believe it necessary to repeat here spect different from the problem of any other colony, the theme that the record of colonialism has been and and it can be successfully solved in no other way than continues to be a dark age in human history. In our by the unconditional liquidation of colonialism. We view, it is far more significant that the historic con- venture to make these few remarks on this subject ditions which made possible this period of exploita- because in our view Algeria epitomizes the entire tion have long since passed and that the survival of colonial problem. We shall of course speak on this colonialism is an anachronism we cannot afford to problem at much greater length when it is our turn tolerate. to do so before the appropriate bodies of this Organi. zation. 12. However, i have referred to the case of South 16. We have heard the view of some representatives Africa, and shall briefly mention conditions in Portu- that colonialism today is in effect self-liquidating. guese Africa, so that we may all understand that we The evidence offered in support of this includes the are not dealing with an academic issue. I shall here admission to the United Nations of seventeen new content myself with the following quotation from nations this year. Those who put forward this view, an authoritaldve and moderate observer, Anthony however, overlook several facts. TheTe was nothing Sampson, in his book Common Sense About Africa: automatic about the process of emancipation in the aThe first major investigation was conducted by past. It was achieved only by the heroic sacrifice and the British journalist H. W. Nevinson in 1905, who struggle of millions in the colonial empire. More- was sent out by Harper's Magazine to investigate over, the countries still under colonial rule constitute allegations of slavery. His book, A Modern Slavery, a hard core, the piercing of which will require even and the reports of later investigators, revealed the more vigorous efforts than those heretofore exerted. large-scale use of forced labour, in conditions In these efforts should be included both the co-opera- hardly distinguishable from slavery. Fifty years tion of those nations which have espoused the prin- later Harperts sent another British journalist, ciples of democracy and of the united Nations itself, Basil Davidson, on the same enquiry. His report in representing the collective will and the public opinion his book, The African Awakenln% together with re- of all the peoples of the world. ports from the Anti-Slavery Society and the Inter- 17. Sometimes we hear the argument of domestic national Labour Office, suggest that the abuses of jurisdiction adduced against United Nations inca- 'contract labour' or 'contratados' are still wide- steres. It is said flÿat the United Nations has no right spread. Nearly half the labour force of Angola, to intervene in colonial countries even by exerting according to Davidson, is still made up by 'cont ra- moral pressure. It is the view of my delegation that tados' as opposed to 'vohintarios' (379,000 to the United Nations cannot be expected to abdicate its 420,000). 'Contratados' are obtained by the local 'Chefe de Posto', who provides them either from duty of using its moral prestige and its unequalled moral authority, as the custodian and symbol of the tax--defaulters or by pressure on the local Chief: itÿ hopes of all the nations, to achieve the final stages is said that in many cases the Portuguese officials of the liquidation of colonialism with the minimum were heavily bribed to produce contract labourers. dangers and the maximum benefits. It we are correct The workers on the cocoa fields of the island of Sÿo in our analysis that the survival of mankind depends Tom6 are still--as they were in the time of Nevin- upon eliminating all possible areas of friction and all son--largely obtained from the forced labour of threats to peace, then we are left with no alternative deported Afrieans.,U but to invoke the entire authority of this international Organization in voicing the demand that colonialism

!/Anthony Sampson, Common Sense About Africa (New York, The be speedily liquidated and that the newly independent Macmillan Company, 1%0), pp. 136-137. nations be assisted in establishing effective govern' mont. 945th meeting ÿ 13 December 1960 1249 , that der he African-Asian draft resolution [A/L.323 and tute indivisible economic entities. This is particularly properly refers to the impropriety of dis- true when artificial boundaries divide homogeneous national unity and territorial integrity. Para- population groups, creating economic and social n from of the draft declaration reads: hardships. We must be governed by the basic prin- to the .Any attempt aimed at the partial or total dis- ciple, as expressed in the Charter of the United Nations, that the interests of the inhabitants of the rat ruption of the national unity and the territorial areas concerned are paramount. We cannot permit seventh ¢,tezrity of a country is incompatible with the pur- arbitrary lines to override the welfare and historical erian 0ses and principles of the Charter of the United P . rights of peoples, or to conflict with the obvious n of Nations. implications of the geographical contiguity of the as an In a similar theme, paragraph 7 reads: regions concerned and the wishes of their inhabitants. : about The disregard of such principles may well lead to ,ÿrd as ,All States shall observe faithfully and strictly disguised forms of colonialism, as wolves in the garb e right the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations, of sheep sometimes creep into the fold. --all of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the present Declaration on the basis of equality, non- result 24. Indeed, in our view the worst legacy of colonial- 3 already interference in the internal affairs of all States, and respect for the sovereign rights of all peoples ism in Africa will be the endless number of terri- and their territorial integrity." torial problems which it has created as a result ntry, be of the artificial divisions of homogeneous national mallland 20. Whilst my delegation fully supports the contents entities. L Somali : 0f these two paragraphs, we should like to emphasize ceptable that phrases such as "territorial integrity" and "non- 25. Colonialism has seen to it, by leaving these interference in the internal affairs of States" should territorial disputes on their hands, that Africans not be used as a disguise for the continued domina- shall be divided amongst themselves for a long time ion of dependent peoples and the denial to them of to come so that erstwhile colonial Powers can exploit y other ithe right of self-determination. When we speak of this division for their own advantage. It is for us , j other wa, peoples, we do not mean merely those who Africans to take full cognizance of this fact and to live under the domination of overseas metropolitan strive for the amicable solution of our differences so ,11 this but also peoples who live under the domina- that the Machiavellian doctrine of "divide and rulen i / zes the of overland colonial Powers. In this connexion I may not reappear in a different and more subtle form speak that the representative of Ireland will allow me from that it has taken in the past. it is 0 quote from his well-thought-out speech delivered 3f this 26. In conclusion, if an overwhelming majority of aa 5 December of this year. the nations represented at this session of the General 21. Speaking of the draft resolution sponsored by the Assembly agree on a vigorous declaration, this ses- African and Asian countries, the representative of sion of the Assembly may well go down in history as said, among other things: the "Assembly of Freedom" and our declaration, as a "Declaration of Freedom", would rank with the great " ... it is essential, we submit, that the rights it Charters of mankind: the Magna Carta, the Declara- ard this for peoples not now enjoying full national ce tion of Independence, the Declaration of the Rights of should be applicable to all peoples in Man, and the Charter of the United Nations. 'ipation all parts of the world, east or west, north or south; I iI 3 the right to exercise full national independence 27. In so doing we shall, it is true, primarily be i mpire. be recognized as Justly belonging to all recognizing history rather than making it, for the whether the oppressors and the oppressed march towards independence is so indelibly inscribed :1 require ÿ were of the same race, creed or c01our, or of dif- in the agenda of manldnd that it cannot be halted; i:i ;of ore races, creeds and colours;" [935th meeting, nevertheless, in a sense we shall be making history the 93]. as well. used the. Nations 22. These words, we submit, strike at the heart of 28. Mr. BOUCETTA (Morocco)(translated from i public matter before this Assembly. In order that their French): Earlier speakers from this rostrum have may be made clear in the draft resolution, described, with a talent I cannot hope to equal, the representative of Ireland expressed his delega- origin, history and consequences of the sorry scourge it of preference that the opening part of paragraph 5 that is called colonialism. Some of the most brilliant Nations read: speakers have sought to give it a definition and to is has no "Immediate steps shall be taken, in Trust and reveal to the world all the hardship, suffering and n by intrigues i/hat it conceals, and also the racial dis- g Territories, and in all cases the sovereign rights proclaimed in this crimination and segregation involved, culminating in the end in the exploitation in inhuman and shameful are denied to any people, to transfer its fashion of man by man, whereas men are borne free powers to the people concerned without any Con- symbol and people are all equal and should be treated as or reservations .... " [ibid., para. t07]. m final such. the delegation would be only too happy to support ve are a proposal. 29. I shall add nothing to what has been said--and well said--to define this phenomenon of colonialism, I am certain that all of us would wish also to which will long remain, alas, deeply engraved in the that all the elements which constitute a hearts and minds of those who have endured it. To and its national territory must be considered understand what it means in practice, without con- with the question of territorial integrity sulting dictionaries or encyclopedias, ask a man, a unity. Unsettled boundaries or arbitrary woman, an old person, a child, a family, a people, a I. must be rectified in accordance with nation that have been colonized, that have endured and commonly accepted criterion of it or are still enduring it, what colonialism means. i of those ethnic groups which also consti- Maybe, they will give you no answer; but how mean- 1250 . General Assembly -- Fifteenth Session- PlenaryMeetings ingful and eloquent will be their silence' How many opposing Powers, their policies of collusion and ÿ 1 generations have for centuries suffered and are still intri es to partition whole con ents reneot litti ! suffering under it, from the days of the concessions credit oh the Powers involved ana are certainly not a 1 and up to the brutal occupation by armed force, which glorious page in the history of mankind. - went on all through the last century and the beginning 34. And how could it be otherwise, seeing that co. of this century. lonialism has its laws and its dogmas, its own dia. 30. Times have changed and we are witnessing today lectic and its own logic. To start with, it infringes the this same phenomenon appear in new forms, with a principle of the equality of individua-ls and ignores new ideology and a new doctrine. That is why the task their most elementary rights. Above all, it signi. we are pursuing today and for which are forefathers ties dortlination, enslavement and exploitation of the gave their lives and their happiness is a noble and individual. Occupation of any territory entails, to major task. It must also be accomplished completely begin with, a clash between two temperaments, two and definitively; it must unmask colonialism in both personalities, discrimination between the colonizer its ancient and its present-day forms. and the colonized. The inferiority of the latter to the former becomes a sacrosanct, principle of 31. The disintegration and liquidation of colonial colonialism. empires is certainly one of the most salient features of contemporary history. After lengthy sufferings and 35. It is a point worth mentioning that the occupying countries which have often thought fit to regard the a heroic struggle, millions of human beings have occupied territories as an integral part of their own successfully shaken off the oppressors' yoke and a territory--some of them even,' in a fancied display large number of nations have regained their free- of generosity, granting their citizenship to the con- dom and their dignity. Nevertheless, anachronistic quered populations--haye never gone so far as to though it may seem in the world of 1960, the expedi- carry this fiction to its logical consequence and grant tions, conspiracies and acts of force that marked the establishment of huge areas of domination in the not complete.equality of rights. very remote past show that the era of colonialism is 36. The recent history of Algeria is most instructive not by any means a thing of the past. Not only does it on this point and shows us the innumerable changes survive in its most brutal classical forms, not only that have been made in the legal status of the Al- does it continue to wage absurd colonial wars but, in gerians at the whim of the colonizing Power and the addition--and this too is a characteristic feature of various categories through which it has successively our time--we find it assuming new forms of domina- passed to fit the needs of the policy of the moment. tion that are no whit less virulent. 37." Colonialism, by its very nature, excludes any 32. This is a problem which merits all the attention form of equal rights which might operate to its dis- and vigilance we can devote to it. That is why Mo- advantage or undermine its rule. Even where it pa- rocco, a country which has endured foreign occupa- rades its civilizing virtues and certain humanitarian tion and its bitter experience, a country flint is ideals, it is mainly directed towards the exploitation devoted to the freedom and dignity of individuals and of wealth and is prone to look upon the native of the nations, is gratified to see the General Assembly country merely as a means to an end, a means of taking up the important question of the grant of in- producing something cheaply. The merciless logic of dependence to colonial countries and peoples. It is such a policy has led, and is still leading, colonialism only natural that the United Nations should take up to practise the most extreme forms of inequality of this--in our view, essential--problem. Specific clauses rights and to build up a system of racial segregation. in the Charter clearly show the importance attached 38. World public opinion continues to feel deep re- to the development of dependent countries and their sentment at the outmoded policies that are still fol- econom4c and social improvement with a view to en- lowed in certain parts of the world, more especially abling them to govern themselves and gain their in Africa, which constitute a negation of the basic freedom. Furthermore, the basic principles of the values of civilization and a serious affront to human United Nations, the aims which are the justification dignity. for its existence, oblige it to deal, with the least pos- sible delay, with the serious problems raised by 39.' The African and Asian countries most immedi- colonialism and its consequences; for, as long as this ately affected by racial discrimination have often phenomenon persists, all the principles on which the been heard denouncing and stigmatizing such be- United Nations is based and which should govern any haviour. The serious decadence in human civilization international community Worthy of its name will be reflected by this disgraceful behaviour was strongly violated--whether it be respect for human rights and condemned at the Asian-African Conference held at dignity or equality as between persons and peoples or Bandung in 1955, and again at the sessions oft he the right of peoples to self-determination'. Conference of Independent African States held at Accra and Monrovia and quite recently also at Addis" 33. We fail to understand, speaking for ourselves, Ababa. how anyone can still talk here about certain obso- lete ideas, acclaiming the merits of "enlightened" 40. These voices from Africa and Asia met with colonialism, vaunting its lofty ideals or attributing to a resounding response from world public opinion. it any kind of humanitarian or civilizing mission. The • The problem of racial segregation is still one of history of colonial conquests, far from being a peak the gravest and most difficult problems which our achievement, confronts us with quite different reali- Organization must solve. For instance, under ties. It is nothing other than a stormy succession of screen of humanitarian intentions, the colonialists wars and expeditions waged by Powers intoxicated by often trample underfoot the most elementary rights their economic and military potential, seeking to gain of the Individual. Similarly, on the pretext that the strategic positions and hankering for wealth and inhabitants of the occupied regions are unable to ex- prestige. The struggles for power between these ploit their wealth, and that they want to help them to 945th meeting -- 13 December 1960 1251 usion and develop their economy, the colonialists do not hesi- such as Ifni, Seguia E1 Hamra, Rio de Oro, Tindouf, s reflect ' tÿte to proceed systematically to exploit that wealth. Tidikelt, Ceuta and Melilla. Each of these territories certainly is under occupation, designated variously as over- Iÿ He finds his energies stifled and subjugated. seas territory, overseas establishment, "presidio" or 2ÿ1Iÿ vd An• individual is not even allowed to prove his eeing tha TÿW that many countries ill Africa and Asia have suzerain area; but the form is everywhere and al- s, its owl ,..ÿ independence we can see how emancipation ways the same and is nothing other than colonial it infringes nÿe expansion of energies that were formerly occupation. Is and muzzled have stimulated the progress and well-being 47. Our task here today is to lead the attack against all, it of the populations and that it was foreign occupation these tricks of division and disunity. It is also to re- loitation that kept the economy, trade and agriculture at such sist, in the best waywe can, colonialist designs based ,ry a backward level. on the principle of "divide and rule" or "disunite in eraments order to hold on". the 42. After being for long regarded as a reserve of of the raw materials and plentiful cheap manpower, the 48. We refuse to accept balkanization, "katanganiza- countries of Africa and Asia have now become aware tion" and "mauritanization". We cannot but voice our of themselves and have realized that, by freeing their regret and resentment at the fact that the same co- energies, independence opens the door to economic t the lonial Powers, which at the end of the last and begin- expansion and social and cultural progress. Several ning of the present century partitioned and divided up ; to examples of this have been cited. I would like to add .rt of Africa into zones of influence, are today objecting to the case of my own country, Morocco, where in four reunification and regrouping. Thus, by seeMng to !ancied years of independent existence we have provided ip to have Mauritania admitted to the United Nations, schooling for more than a million children, or ten France and her allies sought to make the partitioning so far as times more than was achieved in forty-four years of Lence and and division of Morocco a "fair accompli", guaranteed occupation. Our economy, which was a subsidiary and and ratified by the United Nations. The Soviet Uniori, slave economy, is gradually becoming a national in opposing that admission, and the fifty-six dele- economy operating for the progress and well-being gations which expressed themselves in the First erable of the people. Social security benefits are available Committee by their affirmative vote or their absten- atus of for everyone and the social welfare measures intro. tion, 2/were but respecting the principle enshrined in Power and duced since we became independent are much, very the Charter which demands respect for the territorial .s succes much, superior to those which existed before. Dis- integrity of Member States. the erimination and differentiation of every kind have been abolished and we are continuing the fight against 49. We are profoundly sorry that certain repre- unemployment and for the happiness, prosperity and sentatives of great Powers not only disregarded this rate to its well-being of our people. principle but also failed to comply with their own m where it obligations as signatory Powers of such international n 4S. This means the disappearance of the myth of instruments as the General Act of the International :he chronic incapacity which the colonialists were fond of Conference at Algeciras in 1906. e native attributing to the peoples whom they oppressed. One nd, a of the most disturbing aspects of colonialism, how- 50. They go on stubbornly persisting in their mis- cciless ever, particularly at a time when all efforts are takes and in this very Assembly they reproach those who took the correct view with having acted conse- ig, directed towards maintaining peace, is the permanent quentially'. We would like, therefore, to have this of which it represents for the security and sta- al bility of the world. point made absolutely clear: we claim that the Soviet Union, by casting its veto, signified its objection, in- ) feel deep 44° The reason for this is, firstly, that colonial yoking the United Nations Charter, to recognizing the Lt are stili t settlement often goes hand in hand with territorial violation of the territory of a Member State of the lore partitioning and evokes the divisions, or even ex- United Nations by another Member State. The Soviet n of the disputes, which at a given moment in his- Government desired in this way to respect its spe- front to tory may exist between certain peoples. cial obligations towards Morocco whose independence it had recognized in 1956. Why was not the same atti- 45. The territorial partitioning which resulted from the splitting up of whole continents into zones of tude adopted by all the delegations and all the mem- most bers of the Security Council? We can only regret the influence, the intrigues and manoeuvres resorted to '.on have fact but we feel bound to denounce the colonialist by colonialism in order to achieve its aims haye zing action which divides up our country, rends asunder had the effect of exasperating the peoples who lan our people and mutilates our State. Anyhow, we shall suffered from them. This partitioning and dis- [r was continue the fight for complete liberation and for the of territories stands in formal contradiction e renc e safeguarding of our territorial integrity. This is a the very principles of our Charter and prejudices, essions fight based on right and justice. It is also the con- States prejudices, the territorial unity and in- of States. tinuation of a policy that has long since been devised also at to combat colonialism, for resistance to oppression 146. That is how, as we have had occasion to point haÿ been written into the history of peoples and ii i Asia met cut and to repeat, our country was partitioned, split "stanceforms one of colonial of its essential domination factors. which There in the islong no runin- public mutilated and divided because colonial Powers is still at the outset of this century to divide it up be- has not been obliged to capikdate to such resistance. 3mS them quite heedless of either the wishes of That, of course, does imply a lot of hardship and ince, population or natural historical and geographical suffering but the struggle of a people for its freedom he es. That is how a united Morocco, form- steels its energies and adds lustre to its name. What I mentary single indentieal entity, has been amputated makes the situation more serious is that the centres is nowadays presented as the independent of intrigue and trouble whence eolontallsm launches retext -ÿ-See (3fficial Records of the General Assemblyt Fifteenth Session, e unable :whichof Mauritania still languish and underof territories colonial the occupation, populations to help First Committee lll8th meeting, para. 51. I 1252 General Assembly- Fifteenth Session- Plenary Meetings' its attacks for the conquest of strongholds constitufÿ more t .ha. n six years bringing unhappiness a-ÿ a grave threat to peace and stability in a number of • nu s11ffeÿ ing m its train, continues to remind us of a Past-" very sensitive areas. would like to see fiever recur °It continueÿ o I,obÿ- we 51. We cannot remain indifferent to the situation in manifestation of colonialism in its most bÿ,ÿl ÿ The endurance and tenaeiÿ of the AI-ÿ-'ÿ torÿ Oman and West Irian, for in present-day circum- • • -ÿ ÿ6ÿl!ÿIn Peo ' stances peace and security are indivisible. The con- evoke our admiration and our sympathy Th- .Ple phases of its heroic fight are so ÿ,Jÿl ÿ varl0us cept of localized conflict tends to disappear; the extension and the generalization of disputes are al- there is no need to describe or, recalÿthÿ°ÿei ,that detail. ' re ha ways to be feared. One of the most striking examples of the threat which colonialism holds suspended over 55. Our Organization has already on several oe. world peace is the disturbing situation which prevails casions considered, and is bound again thiÿ-- in Palestine, a country where cruel and despotic be- marked as it is by the accession of sever-ÿ ÿ+year, Irieaÿ haviour has reached its peak. A whole nation has countries to independence, to consider this dranm i' been displaced, deprived of its land and its wealth, which dangerously affects international Peace. We and doomed for the last fourÿen years to live in merely wish to stress once more the grave risks of exile. This Palestine sihmtion, which evokes feelings the conflict being widened and internationalized, more of indignation and revolt in everyone's conscience, especially because of the assistance which SOme !/'¸ must be vigilantly watched, for it is highly explosive. nations persist in giving to the colonialist aggressor. It has already led to a local war, in 1948; it nearly Facing as it does a desire for domination which dis. produced a general conflagration in 1956 and it con- regards hist6rical evolution and the irresistible ad. stitutes a permanent source of disturbances and in- vance of nationalismÿs, the Algerian people yet enjoys stability in a highly sensitive area of the world. the support and sympathy of 1,500 million human Generally speaking, the conquest of strategic strong- beings who used to live not long ago in colonialist points, which is still the major aim of colonialism, is slavery and who have succeeded, after long decades a constant source of trouble and a serious fltreat to ! i!! of suffering, in regaining their freedom and their world peace and security. We all know how one event dignity. leads to the next and how the process marches in- evitably on--establishment of military bases, arma- 56. Asia and Africa show a new face to the world ments race, the organization of aggressive blocs. nowadays and we are convinced that the last strong. holds, behind which colonialism has taken refuge, 52. The presence of armed forces, which used to be will in their hum soon crmnble away. Thus, the great excused chiefly by the desire to consolidate political family of the nations which have recently achieved domination and maintain powerful economic inter- independence will go on expanding, to the maximum ests, becomes an end in itself, dictated by strategic advantage of everyone, since its function Will be to considerations and forming an integral part of a play a decisive role in maintaining peace, improving policy of blocs and alliances. We energetically pro- international relations and promoting the progress, test against the threats which, in this way, bear par- prosperity and well-belng of the peoples. At the same ticularly heavily on Africa where certain Powers, time, though, as they are performing this noble but rejecting the disarmament policy which the peace- very difficult task, they must consolidate their loving nations propose should be followed, continue dearly-bought independence, put their economies on to nourish aggressive ambitions and, under the pre- a sound footing and continue to be more vigilant than text of joint defence, set up bases and carry out ever, for the colonial Powers resort to other ways nuclear tests despite general disapproval and con- and means of perpetuating their domination and their trary to the wishes of the peoples of Africa. influence.

53. We protest even more forcibly agaimst the coali- 57. That is the reason why we want to thank the tion of powerful interests, the leagues of aggressive Soviet delegation for having requested the inclusion blocs formed against peoples who are fighting to re- of this item in our agenda and insisting that it should gain their/independence, and this is wherewe come be discussed, with all the proper formality, in our to the most revolting aspect of colonialist domination. Organization. We shall support its draft resolution The building up of overseas territories has not been and my delegation will, likewise, support any resolu- accomplished smoothly and peacefully. Empires on tion or solemn declaration that proclaims the im- which the sun never sets have not been built up in an mediate ending of colonialism in all its forms and atmosphere of peace and calm. The path of colonialist urges respect for the sovereign rights and territorial conquests has always been marked by bloody expedi- integrity of all States without exception. It goes with- t-ions in its various phases, more especially in its out saying that, as regards my country, these resolu- decline. The liberation of e01ohized peoples has al- tions or declarations cover the Whole complex of most always been characterized by merciless wars, colonial territories, however they may be tricked for neither the deployment of a formidable military out or disguised as overseas territories or depart- potential nor the strongest coalition of interests can ments, "presidios" or suzerain areas, colonies or possibly prevent the oppressed populations from protectorates, mandated or trust territories.We have waging to the utmost their lawful struggle for recog- aeen that, though the designation may be different, nition of their sacred and undeniable rights. the system and methods remain the same and the 54. There isno need to dip very far back into his- single objective is to exploit human beings, to exploit tory to come upon classical examples of colonial con- the naÿral wealth for themselves irrespective of any fliers. Some Powers have been engaged in war for other consideration. many long years. Only recently Indo-China was the 58. We say loudly and clearly that we vrant no in- scene of large-scale operations which had aprofound t¸ + i::, dependence nat a discount"; we will never accept de- effect on world security and stability. The war in pendence or servility and so we will always and Algeria, which has been going on relentlessly for everywhere denounce puppet rggimes, balkanizatfon, 945th meeting -- 13 December 1960 1253 3ess economic, military or cultural don{ination. I us of a political, military, economic, cultural, social and for real, true independence, which will dÿlomatie. development of the individual and guarantee ost bruta] advancement and well-being. That is how 65. After 1960 the fight for freedom enters a phase ;rand our fight for the future, one which will which differs only superficially from the previous thY. The no time for obsequiousness or beating about the phase. After emancipation and liberation from direct well or hesitation of any kind. Accordingly, the in- administration, the peoples will soon realize that all them ] to be granted to the colonial peoples must political independence brings them to a period of which protects their territorial integrity and rehabilitation, marked by a struggle against balkani- On not place them under any kind of domination. My zation and the partitioning of countries, against a gain, this is as anxious as any other to see colonial- reversion to capitalist feudalism, against foreign several its death throes and liquidated once and for economic control and against military domination. In ider this it wants this independence to be something a word, nee-colonialism confronts the countries that onal both as regards territory and as regards took part in the Bandung Conference with the prospect [e grave of fighting against the keeping of young countries in a state of dependence. With the prospect of such a ,tioualiz We are aware of the pretext advanced to the Lee 'ecÿ that the colonial countries are not yet capable sombre future before it, nee-colonialism, in order to maintain itself, seeks to create and to aggravate the [alist conducting their own affairs. That ÿs a misleading divisions between the African-Asian countries and ration which baseless pretext and we reject it categorically. irresis consider that the first step is tO free the peoples elsewhere also; it is using and will go on using every means available to break up the Bandung bloc. It is eople yet, colonial domination; t/rot is the essential pre- trying to separate Asia from Africa. In Africa it i ) million fer their speedy evolution. So long as they go in dependent, they will be unable to organize seeks to separate North Africa from Central Africa and from South Africa. Nee-colonialism fights against [ter long countries politically, economically and socially the authentic independence that has been won at the eedom and fashion and so as to serve their own cost of struggle and suffering. It is redoubling its efforts to have in Africa and other countries only i ace to the We can now perhaps draw a few conclusions those forms of independence that are perverted or ; the L what has already been said. even imposed, as in Mauritania in Southern Morocco. !! s taken 51 Firstly, the eradication of colonialism on a ! Thus, the 66. In the United Nations forum classical colonial- scale is desired by decent people all over ecently ism was wont to use a certain number of falsehoods to the world. The liquidation and burial of this parasiti- like pacification, civilizing mission, respect for i evil was long overdue. Colonialism stands con- ction will traditions, serving an apprenticeship to democracy, everywhere and nowadays even the colonial ?eaoe, defence of religion, properly qualified spokesmen, g the pro are ashamed of it. They hide their faces When foreign influence, etc. ties. At the referred to but they hide themunder a veil which ag this not differ from the classical colonialism, nowa- 67. Nowadays nee-colonialism represents itself as onsolidate known as neo-coloniaHsm. a system of orderly evolution, the protector of free- ir dom, in order to maintain its economic and military Secondly, the conscience of mankind rejects domination. It splits up the territorial unity of nations rare vigilant a derogation from the concept of free- rt to other and offers it as a further contribution to freedom and something that favours the spirit of domination, independence. The line marking the boundary between. on a kind of parasitism in which man behaves the notion of evolution and that of revolution becomes a wolf to his fellow-man. The moral conscience harder and harder to perceive. rant to and this leads inevitably to instability ed the in turn, hampers the advance of progress. 68. We live in an age of scientific and technical revolution and, at the same time, our era is also an [ iug that it Thirdly, the moral conscience used to depict the age of political and social revolutions, which explains brmality of empires as a civilizing mission. This draft why the unconditional eradication of colonialism is conscience presents the nee-colonialist im- categorically imperative. port of today as a system for the defence of 'oelaims While this imperialism combats freedom in 69. The trend of history is following the direction of .ii its it provokes secessionist movements in ts and freedom and unity. Freedom is a concrete idea--an and Mauritania, having first set up puppet economic, political, social and spiritual concept. [ ion. It goes completely unrepresentative governments, the %11 ry, these Unity is a concrete idea implying the equality, re- for power, the motives of profit, domination grouping and universality of rights and duties. thole exploitation hide themselves behind the false may be of freedom and take cover behind a military 70. When these two ideas are respected, the evo- ories or imposed on a large number of weak countries. "eas, lutionary process follows the simple path of emanci- Before 1960 the fight for ÿreedom was waged • pation and reconstruction. When nee-colonialism nay be direct colonial administration. This classical interferes with its intrigues and provocations, as ;.he same Gf colonialism tried to secure in the countries in the Congo or Mauritania, the process becomes eSmplicated. It passes from classical colonialism to beings, its control a monopoly of rawmaterials, balkanization, economic exploitation, popular revolu- respective and forced labour, sought to corner control points of strategic importance and tions and then to natural regrouping and, finally, to national reconstruction in every sphere. t we want watch on foreign competition and, lastly, so-called cannon fodder still to be found 71. That is why the concept of independence is en- will always battlefields in Algeria. The characteristic tirely relative unless it is placed within the frame- :i )f this classical colonialism is its domination i,ÿ ! es, work of territorial integrity and representative departments of public life--administrative, government. i / General Assembly- Fifteenth Session--Plenary Meetings 1254 72. The Soviet Union's proposal will con@titute a 80. Colonialism is a system of domination thaÿ landmark in history. With colonialism and neo- survives and, therefore, it should, in the first ÿuÿ colonialism destroyed, it will become moreÿ pos- be speedily abolished. Its abandonment will b/ÿgc,ÿ sible and feasible to bring men together. Since its wake the Hberation of all subject peoples in what. imperialism and the spirit of domination Were the ever lands and by whatever means their freedora is major causes of world wars, the problem of dis- denied. armament itself will be simplified by the liquidation of the last vestiges of the old empires. Peace is indi- 81. The resolution which, as we hope, will emerge visible; it goes hand in hand with justice. When the from this debate is of far-reaching importance. It evil that afflicts humanity has been extirpated, the will be the collective voice of humanity making its beneficial effects will be felt in every department of decisive pronouncement against colonialism and in support of the right of all peoples to self-determina. human activity. rich. In its wider significance the resolution will Mr. Fektni (Libya], Vice-President: took the Chair. mark the approaching end of a long era in human his. 73. Mr. ROSSIDES (Cyprus): The subject which we tory, an era conditioned by the concept of force and are now debating in this Assembly--the granting of domination, and will open up vistas of a new world, a independence to colonial countries and peoples--is world based on equality and the brotherhood of man. one of pre-eminent significance, in relation both to 82. The primary and direct effect, however, of this its moral content and to its global encompassment. It resolution will lie in the termination of colonialism is, in fact, an issue of world freedom. as a world system, a System which still openly 74. The dedication of the people of Cyprus to the sanctions domination by one people over another. ideals of freedom and self-determination has been amply established by their hard and long struggle for 83. Historically, colonialism, which started byway liberation. As a people who have long suffered under of settlement for purposes of trade, soon took the foreign domination and experienced one of the saddest form of subjugation and domination of primitive and manifestations of colonialism and its policy of wdivide under-developed lands and countries in Asia and and rule", and as a country having to cope with the Africa, and eventually grew into a political system effects of colonialism, we feel deeply with all subject and a legal institution. Recognized under international peoples yearning and struggling for their freedom. law, expounded and classified in constitutional laws, With fullness of heart we espouse their cause, which colonialism came to be accepted as a normal state of is our cause, the cause of all peoples spiritually free. affairs. Geography was traced in terms of colonial- ism, and national and international life, for over two 75. We are therefore happy to co-sponsor the Afri- centuries, turned on its axis. In other words, domina- can-Asian draft resolution [A/L.323 and Add.l-6] tion by force, resulting in the deprivation of funda- and to endorse its vigorous declarations. We endorse mental human rights to freedom, equality and justice, it not only because it contains a message of freedom has been, and sadly enough still is, in the name of but also because it contains the meaning of peace. colonialism, sanctioned and treated as the norm. However, the subjection and exploitation of man by 76. Freedom and peace are inseparable concepts man and of nation by nation, so long tolerated and and indivisible realities. Those who seek peace and even admitted in practice, now offend against the deny freedom are working at cross purposes. The moral conscience of humanity. negativeness of the latter destroys the positiveness of the former. 84. In the course of history mankind has gone through many stages and conditions, but ultimately 77. Disarmament and peace can only be achieved their fate has been decided by the human attitude to- where world order reigns, and world order is im- wards them. They survive where moral principle and possible so long as nations seek to dominate other freedom prevail; they finally decay and die when they nations and peoples. Domination is linked with force, run counter to man's inherent sense of right and jus- and force is the enemy of peace. tice. Humanity, finding no hope in them, casts them 78. We are not theorizing; we are speaking from aside. Even slavery, now long outlawed, was for experience. &fter a long struggle for freedom in centuries an accepted and lawful practice. the political field over many decades, the people of 85. The continuous human evolution, shaped by ii Cyprus turned with faith to the United Nations, hoping industrial progress and technological achievements, for a just and peaceful solution. When negative re- slow at first, has in our present times so gained in sults brought disilluSionment and frustration, blood- momentum that it successively revolutionizes all shed and armed resistance followed during four years preconceived notions that do not rest on a moral of fighting, with all its feats of heroism and self- basis. sacrifice, and also with its heavy toll in human life and suffering. 86. The stage has now come when the institution of colonialism, or any other forcible domination of one 79. Criticism is not the objective of this refergnce people over another, will, in its turn, be universally to the past. Its sense is to convey an experience anti condemned and abandoned. an enduring lesson, that peace cannot last where freedom is denied, and that United Nations apathy and 87. Paragraphs 1 and 2 of the declaration in the inaction on issues of freedom do not help the cause African-Asian draft resolution read as follows: of peace. When this simple truth is realized, many nThe subjection of peoples to allen subJuga.tfÿ grave problems of today will find their natural solu- domination and exploitation constitutes a dentaÿ u tion. If we are to move effectively towards world fundamental human rights, is contrary to the Char" peace, we must ensure world freedom; and to ensure ter of the United Nations and is an impediment to world freedom, all forms of subjugation and domina- the promotion of world peace and co-operation. tion should be eliminated. 945th meeting -- 13 December 1960 1255

L that Sti] "-- ,All peoples have the right of self-determination; 93. This is essential in order to counter the conse- rst bY virtue of that right they freely determine their quences of the policy of "divide and rulew, which political status and freely pursue their economic, often is the sad legacy of colonialism and carries its social and cultural development." evil effects further into the future. This is the call of humanity today, and these are the 94. The abolition of colonialism will be a historic dictates of moral principle. They cannot go unheeded. landmark in the moral progress of mankind. There The age of domination by force already belongs to the is no doubt that its impact upon all forms of domina- past. All peoples have a right to live in freedom and tion and oppression will inevitably be far-reaching. naking to develop freely their own culture and their own 95. We cannot, however, hope that colonialism will 3m and political and economic systems. The principle of self.determination has been aptly called the corner- disappear overnight. For a time its existence will stone of the United Nations and the master key of the inevitably continue, but only while it is being gradu- charter. People the world over look to freedom and ally liquidated, in much the same way--to draw a self.determinÿition not only because they promote rough analogyÿin which a company continues to exist human dignity and the assertion of human personality while in Hqnidation. The resolution under discussion but also as elements of peace and conditions neces- will be, in a sense, the receiving order issued by sary for effective progress and international co.. the collective judgement of nations in the matter of operation. For, indeed, the wider the extent of self- colonialism. The United Nations could well be the or, of determination, the broader the basis of peace in the - trustee in this liquidation. World. Relationships of dominant and subject peoples 96. The Charter of the United Nations, in Chapters other. Should be replaced by relations between free peoples XI, XII and XIII, while taking cognizance of colonial- on a footing of equality and trust. In this way, co- ism, made provision for the progress towards in- operation and peace can take the place of antagonism d dependence of colonial peoples and territories. How- n took and war. ever, the progress achieved in these fifteen years 88. The earlier this is realized by those directly has proved too slow to cope with the growing rapidity Asia concerned, the better for them and for world peace. of international developments, which seem to take by 'ÿl systemi:!ill An imaginative policy on the part of those who wield surprise those more directly concerned with them. ernationa[ power can lead no other way. They should move with One manifestation of these rapid developments is the tonal lawsÿ the moving times and the spirit of the age. Even from almost sudden collapse of colonialism, now evidenced Lal state of the viewpoint of expediency, it would be in the inter.. in this debate. The human instinct for liberty, de- f colonialÿ ests of the dominant Powers to co-operate now with veloping into an urge and an impelling necessity, is r over tw0 what is right while there is still time and before now an irresistible force. That force inspires this rapid developments force them to co-operate with the debate and the resolution which will be the outcome l inevitable. Almost all the merit of that co-operation of it. nd would then be lost. he name 97. The inscription in the agenda of the General 89. Forty-two years ago, Woodrow Wilson gave a Assembly of an item like the present one was thought far-sighted warning to the world. In his address to wholly unrealistic and unattainable even a few years the United States Congress on 11 February 1918, he ago. Such was then the grip of the old concept of said: tSelf-determination is not a mere phrase. It is colonialism. It was not then an uncommon occurrence an imperative principle of action which Statesmen for questions of freedom and self-determination will henceforth ignore at their perils The wisdom brought to the United Nations to be put aside, or by- of that statement is now obvious from everyday passed, in resolutions without substance, instead of ultimately realities. leading to the adoption of constructive resolutions. tfitude This was damaging to the prestige of the United inciple aÿ 90. I am glad to note from the statement of the representative of the United Kingdom, Mr. Ormsby- Nations and to the cause of peace. For peace is not , when the served by covering up anomalous situations which Gore, in regard to the smaller British colonies, that ht and juS stem from violations of the very principles on which his country is prepared, as he said, Sin accordance casts the United Nations stands. That simply leads to with Article 73 b of the Charter, to work out with the [, was greater :anomaly--and we are witnessing the effect of people concerned the form of independence which that policy today. will best satisfy their aspirations.ÿ [925th meeting, shaped b! para. 41.] 98. Adherence to principle is steadily becoming devemenÿ more pronounced in the United Nations. The expansion o gained :fi 91, Therefore, even in the case of all the small of membership by the addition of so many new States colonies, their independence is promised by the ionizes ai from Asia and Africa, which long struggled for jus- United Kingdom. We earnestly hope that this will m a Inoÿ tice and freedom in their own cause, brings to the apply also to the brave people of Malta, whose pro- United Nations a growing dedication to the Charter, gress to self-determination seems to have suffered particularly noticeable on questions of freedom and a marked regression in the new constitution now human dignity. offerÿt to them, which is substantially less Hberal tÿr the previous one. That is why we make particu- 99. It is common knowledge that colonialism in its mention of this colony. -accepted form is a product of Western civilization. But it should in all fairness also be said that it was tion in 92. Another vital aspect of the draft resolution is its Lows: qeciaration in paragraph 6, which runs: that civilization which voiced the staunchest moral condemnations of colonialism and exploitation and 'AnY attempt aimed at the partial or total dis- first expounded the principle of self-determination. ,ruption of the national unity and the territorial All freedom movements have in some way or another o the integrity of a country is incompatible with the pur- been inspired by Western civilization and blossomed pediment POses and principles of the Charter of the United in its concepts. Some staunch opposers of British and ration. Natiens.1 other colonialism may be found today in Britain, and ]i 1256 General Assembly- Fifteenth Session- Plenary Meetings i we are grateful to those liberal minds in Britain, no understanding and co-operation. We hope ! and trust less than to those in other nations, who stood by our that, wit]i the resolution to be now adopted, the thread side in the difficult times of our struggle for freedom. will be taken up and a new move forward Will he 100. Another aspect that has been put forward is made in the right direction, towards freedom and towards peace based on freedom. that of ensuring full independence to newly emerging countries. To quote Mr. Walter Lippman: "Colonial- 107. In concluding, I should Hke to point out that the ism does not always end with the grant of political draft resolution, by relating all its parts tothe United independence% Although a territory is independent, Nations Charter and to the Universal Declaration of yet the legacy of colonialism may sometimes be there Human Eights, not only gives a sound basis to its and may in its effect be a hindrance to the fullness of contents', but also revitalizes the spirit of the Char. independence. ter. It restores to the Charter provisions on self. determination something of the strength and purpose 101. From the economic aspect, I should like to turn which they may have lost over the years through in. to what has been said by the representative of Iran, effective treatment of relative items of freedom. to the effect that the economic reconstruction and development of new countries must be aided and their 108. Furthermore, this draft resolution gives to the freedom ensured so that they "will never find it Universal Declaration of Human Rights a new sense necessary, for reasons of national defenee, to al- of reality and validity. This is Of importance, con. locate to military expenditure funds essential to their sidering that that Declaration has no binding force in national development" [926th meeting, para. 69]. a legal sense, and that the completion and adoption of the draft International Covenants on Human Rights 102. Difficult economic problems face the new coun- cannot be expected, at least at the present rate of tries, problems that have to be provided for. The progress, before many years have elapsed. United Nations has a distinct obligation in that re- 109. This resolution, if adopted, will make a signal spect. It should be prepared to render all necessary contribution, juridically and politically, to the United economic and other assistance. Meeting these re- Nations. It could become an epoch-making document, quirements is a necessity and a challenge for the second only to the Charter and the Universal Declara. United Nations. tion of Human Rights. We hope it maybe given, by 103. We therefore support the United States pro- this Assembly, the unanimous adoption it deserves. posal for a United Nations programme for independ- 110. lÿ[r. ZORIN (Union of Soviet SocialistRepublies) ence and development in Africa, and we hope that (translated from Russian): The Soviet delegation has such a programme of development may be extended already had the opportunity of presenting in detail its to Cyprus. views on all aspects of the problem of the immediate elimination of colonialism; it has explained and given 104. We would also wish to see the United Nations the reasons for its proposals. The Soviet Union is in take a more active part in helping newly emerging favour of a radical and immediate solution of the countries, as wel! as countries and peoples in the whole problem of colonialism, and accordingly calls transitory period to independence. A United Nations on all States that really desire the ÿpeedy liberation committee could be established to assist where there of the colonial peoples to adopt, at this fifteenth ses- are differences, by offering its good offices, by sion of the General Assembly, the Declaration on the mediation and by bridging the gulfs, thereby helping in immediate granting of independence to all colonial the smooth and speedyprogress toward independence. countries and peoples the draft text of which has been 105. Although the African-Asian draft resolution is submitted by the Soviet Government in document mainly Concerned with the granting of independence A/4502. to colonial countries and peoples, yet it is in no way iii. In its previous statements the USSR delega- restricted. Its scope, in terms of freedom and self- tion has already pointed out that the overwhelming determination, is all-embracing. It includes all majority of African and Asian delegations have sin- peoples, in whatever land and in whatever circum- cerely expressed their desire to see the immediate stances they are dominated and by whatever means termination of the colonial system and the adoption they are deprived of their inalienable right to self- at this session of the General Assembly of measures determination and freedom. that would help in the performance of this noble task. 106. This resolution will, in a sense, be a sequel to We should like now to express our views on the draft and a counterpart of the 'Bandung Declaration, adopted resolution and declaration submitted by forty-three at the Asian-African Conference of 1955. The im- African and Asian States [A/L.323 and Add.l-6]. The portance of that declaration cannot be over-empha- Soviet delegation's opinion of this African-Asian draft sized. It was the dynamic expression of the awakening resolution is, on the whole, favourable, even though African-Asian world unanimous in its declaration on we consider it inadequate and incomplete. The draft basic moral and political principles. That declaration resolution-declaration contains a number of funda- was equally all-embracing in its condemnation of mental provisions that were put forward in the Soviet imperialism and colonialism, in all their manifesta- draft declaration submitted, as you all know, at the tions, and in upholding the right of self-determina- very beginning of the fifteenth session. It can be said tion. From that conference a chain of events followed "that the Sovietdraft declaration and the draft resolu- that cannot be unrelated to the spirit of Bandung. tion presented by the African-Asian countries ex- They produced a healthier international climate lead- press a common platform and identical views on a ing up to the Geneva Summit conference. 3/Subsequent number of vital questions. This is a gratifying fact adverse events in international relations interrupted that proves that in the protracted struggle for the the trend of that positive move towards greater elimination of colonialism conducted by the Soviet Union, all the socialist countries and the African and 3_/Conference of Heads of Government of r-he four great Powers, held Asian countries and peoples, there is an identitY of at Geneva from 18 to 23 July 1955. views and a single fundamental purpose. 945th meeting -- 13 December 1960 1257

However, we must also point out the defects 119. First: we consider it essential to fix a target ÿf which we think the African-Asian draft resolu- date by which all colonial countries and peoples must ÿ rs. be liberated. The call for the prompt liberation of the :ÿ

113.ragraphs We could are not observe, drafted withfirst sufficientof all, that clarity; certain as result they are interpreted differently even by the been adopted repeatedly at conferences of African outsponsors that the of representaÿve the draft resolution. of the PhilippinesWe need only asserted point and Asian States. AS early as 1955, for instance, the t!ÿt what was enjoined in paragraph 5 of the draft States represented at the Asian-African Conference d0claration was not the immediate transfer of all at Bandung adopted a declaration to the effect that on ncol0nialism in all its manifestations is an evil which powers to the peoples of the colonies, but rather the tÿking or initiating forthwith of steps which would .....should speedily be broughtÿ to ÿLÿÿan endÿ. @ _ (ÿ) ÿ ÿ lead to such transfer of power. Approximately the 120. This demand of the Bandung Conference is re- same interpremuon of that paragraph was given by flected in the draft resolution now submitted to us. the Malayan representative, who stated that nthe However, we must take into account the fact that this declaration toes not envisage ... that all powers demand, adopted in 1955, i.e. five years ago, now sMll be transferred forthwithw [935th meeting, needs developing further. Having regard to the very para. 130]. We are inclined to think that this interpre- rapid rate of development of the national-liberation tation does not correspond to the desires of the movement, it is ÿot enough now merely to repeat the 0verÿhelming majority of the sponsors of the draft demands that were made five years ago. resolution. We have no doubt of the sincerity of the aspiratiohs and motives of the overwhelmtng majority 121. It was for precisely this reason that at the of the African and Asian delegations, and we think second Conference 'of Independent African States, held that they do not agree with such an interpretation and at Addis Ababa in June 1960, a resolutionwas adopted believe in the need for the immediate liberation of urging the colonial Powers ÿ . .. to fix dates in con- the colonial peoples. The Soviet delegation, too, in- fortuity with the will of the people for the immediate terprets paragraph 5 in just that way. attainment of independence by all non-independent countries and to communicate those dates to the 114. In a number of other provisions, also, the people concernedw. The Soviet delegation fully sup- wording could give rise to interpretations contrary to ports this demand made by the representatives of the :the basic meaning of the draft resolution as under- independent countries of Africa. stood by the majority of the African and Asian coun- by their statements in the plenary 122. Thus, in the past five years the demand for the Leaving aside the question of the desira- speedy elimination of the colonial system has been [ and bfffty of improving the wording in a number of places, transformed--and very naturally so--into a demand Jnion is iinee this could complicate the consideration of the for the immediate elimination of the colonial system, ,ÿon of draft resolution-and this the Soviet delegation has no for the immediate liberation of al! peoples still Living ingly :fundamentalintention of doing--we provisions should which, like in our to indicateopinion, twothe in conditions of colonial oppression. In conformity with the resolution adopted at Addis Ababa, the repre- sponsors of the draft resolution have completely sentative of Togo, when speaking here in the general tion failed to take into account. debate, referred to the need to eliminate colonialism 11 as an urgent matter and emphasized that: h has 115. Firstly, the draft resolution refers to the need the speedy elimination of colonialism and for Our concern here is not merely to condemn immediate steps to be taken to transfer all powers to colonialism and adopt the principle of the grant of peoples of Trust and Non-Self-Governing Terri- independence. It is of the greatest importance that and of all other territories which have not yet we should also draw up, here and now, a time-table attained independence. However, no precise target of dates on which the colonized territories are to for the grant of independence to the colonial be granted independence. Otherwise the countries is indicated. Moreover, the draft resolution sÿfll in bondage will have to face another long ! no specific instructions for the Powers which • struggle against colonial power.W [936th meeting, responsible for the liberation of the colonies and par a. 65.] nthe Territories. It contains no indications what- 123. We support this proposal of the Togolese dele- of what these Powers are to do and bywhat date. gation for the fixing of a time-limit for the granting i!: [.i-6]. Secondly, an important provision is missing: a of independence and we propose that the end of 1961 ili should be set as the target date. We accordingly pro- to the effect that the General Assembly i consider the question of the implementation of pose that a provision should be inserted in the draft declaration at its next session; this is essential resolution of the African-Asian States, stating that L'order to ensure that the main provisions of the all colonial countries and peoples should attain com- are carried out. plete freedom and independence not later than the end of 1961. In our view, this shameful relic of the de- The Soviet delegation has accordingly deemed funct colonial system can no longer be tolerated. [:i to submit for consideration by the Gen- . Assembly certain amendments to the African- 24. At the same time, for the implementation of the draft resolution which, while leaving the exist- practical measures necessary for the transfer of all text unchanged, would introduce some additional powers to the peoples of the colonies, the Soviet that would give effectiveness to the gen- delegation proposes that the General Assembly should call upon the colonial Powers to enter into negotia- stated in the declaration and would j about their speedy implementation. tions with representatives of the indigenous inhabi- tanks of the colonial countries. In order that these The following are the essential points of these representatives may truly express the will and amendments. aspirations of the colonial peoples, the Soviet dele- i . '!; 1258 - General Assembly--Fifteenth Session--Plenary Meetings " ÿ ÿI I-- ' ! ÿÿq it essential that elections should be and are thus contrary to paragraph 2 of the declara uÿ ':I: held inÿ. allÿJLÿ colonies ÿ on the basis . ofunxversal • suffrage, tion in the African-Asian draft resolution,which quite : no1 .... In order to ensure a free expression of their will by rightly states that "All peoples have the right of self. of determination". If any States have any claims or the peoples of the colonies and to prevent any manipu- reservations to put forward with regard to the dis. lation of or juggling with the election results,we con- position of any particular territory, such matters sider it desirable that the United Nations should, if au should, in our opinion, be settled according to merit si necessary, supervise the conduct of the elections. in each individual case; no attempt should be made to 125. In this connexion, it is necessary to recall that raise private claims and reservations to the level of during the recent discussion in the Fourth Committee a general principle restricting the inalienable right a majority of the Committee's members approved a of every people to sell-determination. proposal by Togo and Tunisia that the United Nations 129. For the reasons I have just stated the Soviet could, when it deemed necessary, supervise the delegation will vote against the Guatemalan amend. democratic processes by which the peoples of the co- lonies express their wishes [see A/4651, paras. 5-8]. ments. We are all well aware of the importance which many Mr. Sosa Rodrfÿuez (Venezuela), Vice-President, African and Asian countries, and other countries too, took the Chair. attach to the holding, for instance, of a referendum in Algeria under United Nations supervision, in order to 130. The PRESIDENT (translated from Spanish): I ensure people's freedom will. give the floor to the representative of France, in the exercise of the right of reply. 126. Second: we consider that'ÿe deeiÿration on the granting of independence to colonial countries and 131. Mr. BERARD (France) (translated from French): peoples is different from the usual run of declara- I had not intended to intervene in this discussion, but, tions-such as the Universal Declaration of Human as references have been made to France by several Rights, for example--in that it is not a programme to speakers, may I be permitted to make use of my right be applied for all time, but a programme of immedi- to reply to the various representatives concerned. ate action to implement 132 To some of these let me say, first, that the cÿeÿd. ÿ.ÿe ..... ÿ French delegation was very glad to see this quest!on • • ortaÿce The United placed on our agenda. I would remind tlÿem maz m me the tÿme factor is of great imp __ • - "sto of our Organization there had been nothing !Tÿ' Nations'ÿ';:ÿe declaration cannot simply ol m(lependence confine ÿelf ÿor tu aaÿ ÿ,ÿoclaiming uuÿv,ÿ , hÿ ry certain principles, without taking steps for the appli,- like what has happened in the course of the present cation of those principles implementation session--Iof seventeen mean theStates admission that were to formerly the United colonial Nations terri- of the declaration tories. And thirteen of these States were formerly African-Asian draft under French administration. So, as regards the de- resolution for a clause providing that the General colonization process and as far as France is con- Assembly should consider at its sixteenth session cerned, the facts speak for themselves. These States in 1961 the question of the implementation of this were admitted unanimously; in other words, the most declaration. scornful of our critics did in this case add their votes 127. For the reasons I have stated, the Soviet dele- to that of France and it was not our fault if a four- gation has already circulated and now formally sub- teenth African State failed this week to become the mits for consideration by the General Assembly the hundredth member of our Organization. following amendments to the draft resolution sub- 133. There has been no improvisation about this mitted by forty-three countries of Africa and Asia evolution. We have no regrets about it. Quite the con- [A/L.323 and Add.l-6]: trary; we have constantly "encouraged it. Several speakers were good enough to admit this and to "Add the following paragraphs after operative recognize the merits of this action. I would thank paragraph 7: them for this testimony, revealing as it does both '8. Calls upon the Powers concerned to ensure their honesty and their character. the transfer of full and sovereign power to the 134. I shall define the French position on this prob- peoples of all dependent territories in accordance lem by recalling the words uttered by General de with the principles stated above and, for this pur- pose, to enter into negotiations withrepresentatives Gaulle on 5 September 1960: of the colonial peoples elected on the basis of uni- "Regarding the whole movement of decolonization versal suffrage, if necessary under United Nations which is taking place all over the world, I have not supervision, so that all colonial countries and ceased, since the day when the world war led me to peoples should attain independence not later than speak and to act in the name of France, to follow the end of 1961 and take their rightful place in the the same course, because I think the emancipation community of nations; of the peoples--for that is what is at stake--is con" sistent both with the spirit of our country ... and '9. Decides to consider the question ofthe imple- mentation of this resolution at its sixteenth regalÿr with the irresistible movement set in motion by the world war and its aftermath. session ÿ .4__/ 128. AS regards the Guatemalan amendments [A/ "I then directed French policy along this path-the L.325] to the African-Asian draft resolution, the path of emancipation--and for the past two years ! Soviet delegation is unable to support these amend- have steered it in the same direction." ments since they provide for a limitation of the 135. We were also happy to hear the many refeÿ fundamental right of all peoples to self-determination made m this discussion to freedom. Notbÿnÿ ences . . et that relates to freedom can leave us ÿndffferent. L equenr!y circulated as document A/L.328. 945th meeting ÿ 13 December 1960 1259

be quite clear: the freedom I am referring to is 140. There have been many words spoken during the freedom of a minority to impose its laws nor this debate. Some of them were good, some were not majority to silence any voice raised in disagree- so good and this difference is reflected in the draft It is the freedom of the group as well as of the resolution before us. I quite recognize the sincerity al. It is liberation from hunger, from fear of many of the sponsors of this draft resolution and I ignorance. It is the freedom of self-expres- would pay tribute here to the efforts made to invest of action, freedom to construct without con- this document with a certain nobility, to make it into without anxiety or any hinderance other than something other than a weapon in the cold war. the level for the freedom of others. We want to have 141. We particularly welcome several of the para- nable foz ourselves; we want it for others; and in graphs in the preamble. We, too, consider that every this connexion I would like to pay tribute to the people has the right of free determination, that the speakers who contributed coÿnstructive ideas to this national unity and territorial integrity of States should discussion- be respected. But certain of the passages in this . Others have proffered criticisms of my country document merely reiterate commitments which are i have taken up a different attitude. One might well contained in the Charter. We recognize and we re- suzprised and shocked to find one Pawer repre- spect these obligations. We wonder, though, whether here trying to play the leading role when we these repetitions add anything at all to what is laid have waited in vain so far for the slightest sign on its down in the international moral code. of any policy of decolonization. Such a degree of acedness might well impress those of us who 142. Above all, however, the draft before us is, un- not so well informed but, after the veto cast on happily, not devoid of considerations that have nothing in the Security Council, the mask has to do with the aims that are sought. It reflects, pos- dropped and I feel sure that in future more of sibly unintentionally, the antagonisms which I men- 3 by us will be able to discern the difference between, tioned earlier on. In that respect the declaration of my on the one hand, fine words, righteous indignation, before us will not help to promote the spirit of inter- ,ncerned. advice, warnings of all kinds and, on the other hand, national comprehension which should animate us all. It also contains certain contradictions. For instance, rst, that These false facades have an unfortunate habit in paragraph 7 of the draft declaration, a rather i ;his quesl dcollapsing. ':i solemn reference is made to the principle of non- m that When people talk about independence, we also interference in the internal affairs of States, but, een :have in mind something other than the behaviour of quite frankly, can it be claimed that the draft does [ the pre! who disappoint and bore us by constantly re- not contain a whole series of admonitions which all fited year after year what they have been told to i constitute interference in the internal affairs of ! • the master brain. If some day or other a States? ,re of theirs shows the slightest sign of origi- ;ards the faintest breath of genuine freedom, that 143. I am quite aware of the fact that the drafting of nce is a great day in the history of our Organization. a text of this kind does inevitably confront its authors These Now I would like to reply to those speakers with serious difficulties and I am the first to pay tri- xtsl il in discussing the colonial problem in Latin bute to the conscientiousness of those who have taken i referred to the FrenCh "dÿpartements" in on such a responsible task. Nevertheless, my dele- nlt if Antilles. This is an unfortunate confusion which gation does not feel that it can, for the reasons I have from an obvious misunderstanding both of the stated, support the draft resolution in the form in situation and Of political reality. My country which it has been laid before the Assembly. not administer any colonies now in Latin 144. The PRESIDENT (translated from Spanish): I mite the The "departements" there are French "d&- call on the representative of Spain to exercise the it. and the only special feature about them right of reply. this S that they are separated from the rest of the Repub- by the sea, in the same way as Corsica is. These 145. Mr, DE LEQUERICA (Spain) (translated from it does have been French for more than three centuries Spanish): This debate on colonialism is extremely are some of the oldest French provinces. Is it interesting and, in my opinion, very valuable for the necessary to remind you that the Antilles were development of the interests of mankind in general, on this but it undoubtedly offers extraordinary surprises for 7 at the Constituent Assembly in 17897 Is any- unaware of the fact that, ever since the Second those who are listening to it attentively and with feel- elmblic and the introduction of universal suffrage, ing. For exampleNand I am grateful to the President [ecolonizi since 1848, these countries have sent deputies for giving me the right to speak--I have been listen- senators to Parliament7 The "dSpartementsn of ing this afternoon to the representative of Morocco, I Martinique and Guiana are integral parts whose remarks I have had an opportunity of appreci- nce, French Republic on the same footing as any ating on other occasions and whose views I always Their citizens have equal status and citizen- find of interest, particularly as he represents a take--is rights without distinction or discrimination. friendly country, when suddenly, in a list of presuma- have equal representation and take part at all bly colonial countries--some of them Spanishmwhich in the political and administrative life of the I shall not discuss now, though there is good reason iii l The most distinguished sons of the Antilles to do so, I came across the names not of two Spanish Jli given, and continue to give, the French Republic provinces, as I pointed out this morning [944th meet- ing] for another reason, but of two Spanish cities st two men of action and statesmen who are the of all my compatriots. belonging to two different provinces. Lastly, I would like to say a few words to the 146. Mention, I noticed, was made of Ceuta, a city of many of the draft resolution in document A/L.323 67,000 Christian and 13,000 Moslem inhabitants, all since some of them have in the course Spaniards, belonging to the province of Cadiz; and of !i remarks thought fit to refer to my country. Melilla, a city in the province of Malaga, with a i

1260 General Assembly- Fifteenth Session- Plenary Meetings

population of 85,000 Christians and 7,000 Moslems, numbers and it has many features in common with ! I all Spaniards. the ports of the Iberian Peninsula which face it. i 147. I remember in the last years of the old elected 153. Now did the one-time sultans, now kings of Mo- type of Parliament having found myself sitting next to rocco, ever at any time lay claim to Ceuta7 No; on the deputy from Algeciras, who was also the deputy the contrary, in many treaties signed before the Pro- for Melilla,. and now, all of a sudden, by an incredi- tectorate was set up and when, according to specific ble inversion of values, it comes about that not two declarations made by the Moroccan delegation, the provinces but two cities belonging to two different sultans were free, the territories around Ceuta were Spanish provinces, which have been inhabited for five discussed but never Ceuta itself. or six centuries past by Spaniards of different reli- 154. I do not want to burden you with dates but in gions though predominantly 'Christianÿwhich has not article III of the Treaty of Peace and Amity between changed their character--are regarded, quite in- Spain and Morocco, signed at Tetuan on 26 April 1860, comprehensibly and confusedly, as territories to be it is stated that ÿin order to Carry into effect what is investigated, transformed and placed under other stipulated in the preceding article, His Majesty the peoples' sovereignty. King of Morocco cedes to Her Majesty the Queen of Spain, in full dominion and sovereignty, the territory 148. Accordingly, I beg to invoke, as I did this included between the sea and along the heights of morning for a different reason, the principle that has Sierra Bullones, and the ravine of Anghera...ÿ. I do already been very shrewdly appealed to by the Soviet delegation to the effect that it is quite inadmissible, not propose to read the detailed texts but there is no mention of Ceuta in any of these instruments, save under due protest, to make an attackon the unity since it was a centuries-old Spanish city. or the sovereignty of States Members of the United Nations who are protected by its Charter, and I beg 155. And now Melilla. Melilla belonged to an old Ru- to protest, most respectfully but most energetically, sadir founded by the Phoenicians and which Ptolemy against this strange phenomenon of a reference to called Ryssadiron. It came into the possession of the Ceuta and Melilla being made in our debate by the Visigoths, and was the seat of a Christian bishop in representative of Morocco. the fifth century; it then passed to the Moors who gave it the name of Mlila, a very common name in 149. I would add--I do not wish to say much, but it is North Africa; its inhabitants devoted themselves to important, and I have some essential facts on the the exploitation of mines, as they do to this day. point to hand--that Ceuta, under the name of Abila, Meanwhile, in 1496, Don Juan Clar5s de Guzmÿn, was already known at the time of the discovery of the Duke of Medina Sidonia, financed an expedition under famous Pillars of Hercules; that the Greeks called it his officer, Don Pedro de Estupiitÿn, who captured Heptadelphos because of its seven hills; that the Ro- the city which at that time belonged to the King of mans called it Septem Fratres (The Seven Brothers), Tlemcen. Up to 1556 it was held by the Dukes of whence the derivation of the names Septa and Ceuta; Medina Sidonia with the title of Captains-General. It that it formed part of the dominions of Carthage, and was frequently attacked when it was in Spanish pos- when that republic was annihilated by Rome, it be- session. In 1856 a convention was signed extending came the capital of Mauritania Tingitana, a Roman its boundaries. And, just as in the case of Ceuta, all province; and that in the times of the Emperor Otho the treaties with the sultans of Morocco recognized it was included in the juridical convention of Cÿdiz. that Melilla was Spanish; for example, the Conven- tion between Spain and Morocco signed at Tetuan 150. In the same neighbourhood landed the 80,000 on 24 August 1859 talks of nceding to Her Catholic Vandals who, under the command of Genserie, in- Majesty in full dominion and sovereignty the land vaded North Africa. Later, between 531 and 548 it contiguous to the Spanish city of Melilla, as far as was conquered by the Visigoth King of Spain, Teudis. the points that will most adequately ensure the de- It was also conquered by Justinian, Emperor of fence and tranquiUity of that township". Byzantium, though I do not think it remained long in his power. It was in the possession of the Visigoths, 156. In a further article emphasis is again laid on i.e. the Kingdom of Spain, when it was occupied by this point but there is never any mention of authority Muza before he invaded Spain in 710. over Melilla. What then is the point of bringing into this debate, one that is replete with serious problems 151. After innumerable historical vicissitudes, in and with matters that fully justify preoccupation and the year 1437 the five brothers of Edward I, King of the need for all of us to re-examine our consciences, Portugal, landed at Ceuta and tried to capture Tan- arbitrary statements that are devoid of all historical giers. Under Philip II of Spain, heir to the posses- significance? Or are we to believe that by one of sions of the Kingdom of Portugal, which also included those fancies which French seventeenth-century his- Ceuta, they were already incorporated in Spain in the torians defined as ad usum Delphini and which were sixteenth century. Again, in 1640, when Portugal used to satisfy the Dauphins Who liked to believe that separated from Spain, the nobles of Ceuta proclaimed their States were more powerful than they actually it as belonging to the King of Spain, Philip IV. Under were--an analogy that has since then lost its dynastic the treaty concluded on 13 February 1663, the towns significance so that the phrase ad usum Del h pÿ and dominions held in Africa were ceded to Portugal, means, in generalD ÿfor the gratification of the I i except Ceuta which Spain reserved for itself, and its mightyWmare we, I say, to believe that with arbitrary possession was confirmed in article 2 of the treaty assertions of this kind we are going to transform the of 1678. Since that date it has belonged to Spain. geographical fact that these two African cities form an essential part of Spain? Or, to recall the eloquent 152. I read from a text, not a Spanish text but the remarks of the representative of France, are we Enciclopedia Italiana (vol. IX, page 903), that, being going to draw geographical lines that will upset hu" in constant touch with Europe, Ceuta has become a man history, century-old coexistence and the exist" Spanish city where the Moslem population is few in ence of permanent spiritual values? 945th meeting -- 13 December 1960 1261

shall not dissemble the factmand I am proud ing words spoken by Crown Prince Moulay Hassan it--that Spain is a Euro-African Power and when he visited Tetuan on 17 June 1956: such for many centuries; that it has had "Moroccans, men and women, old people and or, rather, establishments in Africa that children, will never forget the work done by Spain ancient than any establishments that the and the immense services rendered to His Majesty kings can boast of, as I have just shown. I the Sultan and to Morocco in those difficult mo- need to add that this north of Africawas ments when justice was trampled upon andpersecu- any time a hard and fast unity, as invented tion was rampant. asserts. This was quite clearly proved in the about Mauritania. We Spaniards were a "The realization of this work did no more than not of Morocco--although that is partially reflect the nobility and chivalry of the Spanish :definitely of Mauritania--and I cite the dates people and sow the seed of the sincere attachment them from that discussion--between 1094 and affection, as well as the heartfelt friendship The Mauritanians, the Almoravides, or between Morocco and Spain, which is of such great from those tribes, oecupÿ[ed a great advantage to both countries." built a castle in the Alfajerfa and con- And the Prince concluded by exclaiming "Long live practically the whole of Moslem Spain. We Spain: Long live Moroccol " Afro-Asian colonymand I say it proudlyÿ is no need to hide the fact. To that circum- 160. I could quote other texts that would express we owe the Alhambra of Granada, Cordoba the same sentiments, and I myself have heard dis- cultural monuments that have be- tinguished representatives of this friendly country of our culture. Perhaps the link we enjoy make similar references with regard to Spain. That the most advanced European philosophy of the is why I am so surprised and why I must enter a pro- as our American brothers have on occasion test against this astonishing behaviour which is so out, is also responsible for many. of the foreign to the customary conduct of our discussions. stian and spiritua! values in our past history. Can it be perhaps that a pro-Bolshevik infection has Lhe for the moment afflicted our good friends, and in many respects our brothers, of Morocco? It may well mmon 0nly .people with confused minds, to whom an be the case but I do not feel inclined to criticize too simplified version of history appeals, will harshly. It is easy to be tempted and many honourable claims for a specific frontier line within countries yield to it, but will they not regret it later? s de sole authority would be exercised. This is a That is not the least of the peculiar features of this we must contest on historical grounds and for evil called colonialism, a subject on which I had not who of the spiritual values cherished by our the least intention of intervening. And, if I may be to And we regret that a country with such a permitted the digression, I will tell you why: because ,y :for law as Morocco has, a country with which we have very few countries to be talked about in none but cordial relations, should disregard Africa; we are a tiny country in the colonial sense. n discussions on frontiers that are going on We could borrow a well-known French tag and say: gned iÿembark on a course of action that is so incon- "Au banquet de la vie, infortunÿ conviveÿ. And we e with the United Nations Charter and shows might well add: nAu banquet d'Afrique, infortun6 coo respect also for justice and law, by claiming convive". , the Spanish cities which regard it as a great reed at belong to our country. How long then will 161. In the great colonial enterprises of the nine- 13 wait before asking for Guadalajara, which has teenth century, so widely discussed and on which so tgnty or before settling down on the banks much could be said, we participated only to a very illa, as Guadalquivir, which also has a Moslem name, limited and remote degree. However, that does not 3ÿre other part of the country? Are we going to prevent us from taking a sensitive and impartial view world history into a veritable bedlam7 Are we of the problem, or from listening to Soviet speeches-- / 3 to transform historians and politicians intoÿ such as the one we have just-heard--which really ion of of the representatives belong to countries indicated anxiety for freedom and the sufferings of f type of person is not well known, though peoples--which may be the beginning of a phase of ious of the older countries are familiar with it--that reflexion or perhaps, even, of repentance. Before genealogist, who, for a money fee, will very such unbelievable happenings as that we shall .not i tr !discover a relationship, for someone who wants take our eyes off the fundamental problem that is i, ,f powerful ancestors, with' Napoleon Bona- being constantly referred to here as colonialism. that or the Emperors of Constantinople? Are we to set limits for ourselves in all these 162, It is true that there has been harshness shown, /i tnd which: there has been persecution, that justice has been lacking in many of our relationships. Our brothers of ,f 1 they¸ Central and South America have, with due reserva- st its I am doubly sorry about this instance because tions and with highly intelligent observations based brought up by a country like Morocco, which on history, commented here--it was a moving experi- ication so many proofs of affection, in our corn- ence to listen to them--on the colonial problem and with have been plenty of difficulties, which, on the difficulties and, at the same time, the splendid part at any rate, have only increased the achievements of Spain. We have no colonial past in we have felt for the heroism shown by an Africa, there have been very few interventions by 11 on the battlefield. Yet Morocco used not Spain. But that does not alter our profound conviction. how greatly Spain helped Morocco to re- lÿ.ce, And it is this circumstance of not being personally will itself as a free Power. That fact has bben involved that leads us not only to proclaim how .!much more than once by some of its repre- and we have done but also to think and vote on African t need only quote, for example, the follow- problems with profound respect for the countries of

i 1262 General Assembly- Fifteenth Session Plenary Meetings that continent and with the desire that they should that when the Danish Government was i always attain the realization of all their just aspira- after our general election in November of this yÿeeÿr tions in legal and orderly fashion. a Member of Parliament elected by the Greenland population was made a Cabinet Minister. 163. I ventured in the general debate [886th meeting] to cite the texts of the great Spanish jurists of the 170. Against this background it will easily be Under. sixteenth century who, at the time when America was stood that Denmark whole-heartedly supports the discovered, recognized the rights of the primitive idea of the adoption by the United Nations of a decla, inhabitants of that continent and refused to grant ration stressing the necessity of bringing to a speedy rights of tutelage and vassalage that were not con- end colonialism in all its forms and manifestations. sistent with law. Mr. Belaÿnde has also alluded to 171. We, support the draft resolution submitted by a those jurists in this debate. That is the spirit in large number of African and Asian States [A/L.323 which we are taking part in this discussion and it is and Add.l-6]. In our opinion, it covers the probleÿ in that spirit that we shall vote, subject to the neces- better than the draft resolution submitted by Hon. sary reservations regarding those phrases which are duras [A/L.324/Rev.2], and also much better than the perhaps not really consistent with the meaning of the draft submitted by the USSR [A/4502]. United Nations Charter. But this should not be taken as representing our attitude towards attacks on the 172. The African-Asian draft resolution certainly sovereignty of Spain, which I very strongly denounce has its merits, although we would have preferred a here and now. somewhat different wording of certain passages. 164. The PRESIDENT (translated from Spanish): I Take, for instance, the following: call upon the representative of Denmark to speak in "Convinced that the continued existence of co- explanation of his vote. lonialism prevents the development of international 165. mr. CHRISTI&NSEN (Denmark): The Danish economic co-operation, impedes the social, cultural people has welcomed most heartily the tide of libera- and economic development of dependent peoples and tion from colonialism and the emergence of new militates against the United Nations ideal of uni- States which are characteristic of the present epoch. versal peace." It is a blessing .for mankind that in the years since 173. This can hardtybe said to be a correct analysis the Second World War there has been an increasingly of colonialism. There have undoubtedly been cases strong trend towards liberating dependent nations in which colonialism did not prevent developments from the dominion of other nations. such as those mentioned. On the other hand, there 166. I should like at this point to compliment in par- have unfortunately been instances in which coloniaN ticular the United Kingdom Government, which in the ism was an impediment to such development. We find years immediately following the war gave the signal that this passage is a generalization and therefore for this new development by granting independence to incorrect. India and other peoples within the British Empire. 174. There are a few more points to which I should 167. In recent years we have witnessed great and like to call your attention. Paragraph 3 reads as rapid advances in this respect, especially in Africa. follows: All friends of progress and liberty welcome the "Inadequacy of political, economic, social or edu- liberation of Africa as another victory for the high cational preparedness should never serve as a pre- ideal that all peoples have the right to enjoy complete text for delaying independence." freedom and independence. In Denmark we have tried to live up to that ideal, which we highly cherish. This wording is not quite clear, although there could not, I think, be any doubt as to what the meaning 168. In this connexion I should like to mention the actually is. Would not a correct interpretation be that manner in which relations between Iceland and Den- colonial Powers shall not be able to prevent transi- mark were settled, in full agreement between the two tion to independence by pointing to the political, eco- countries, first in 1918 and later in 1944. I need only nomic or cultural inadequacies in the territory con- refer to the warm-hearted statements made by the cerned, inadequacies for which they themselves would representative of Iceland during the debate here. probably be responsible? There is a most intimate friendship between the Ice- landic people and the Danish people, and the ties be- 175. This undoubtedly touches upon a problem which tween our two countries are growing increasingly should not be overlooked. It would be unrealistic to strong. maintain that immediate transition to independence would always be more advantageous for the popula- 169. I would further mention the reorganization with tion than a gradual transition, irrespective of the regard to Greenland which, with the approval of the state of development the population has reached. It United Nations, was carried out in 1953. On 22 No- is a great problem and one to which it is extremely vember 1954 the General Assembly of the United difficult to find a just and equitable solution. Nations adopted a resolution in which it was estab- lished that the Greenland population had freely ex- 176. If we look at the development that has taken pressed its will and had been placed on an equal place in Africa in the last few years, I think that footing with other parts of the Kingdom of Denmark many would say with regard to a certain territory [resolution 849 (IX)]. May I add that this reorganiza- that the transition to independence occurred at a time tion has proved to be a happy one, satisfactory for when it had not been adequately prepared. On the the population of Greenland as well as for the Danish other hand, many would argue that there have been population as a whole. This does not mean that all several instances in which delay in the transition W problems have been solved. But progress has been independence caused extremely great difficulties. But made and continues to be made. As the latest impor- it should be borne in mind that the rulers of a terrÿ" tant step in this direction I should like to mention tory--or even a group of people--would be apt to think 945th meeting -- 13 December 1960 1263 our debate on this question many representatives in ."ÿ-ÿ deuendent people had not yet attained suf- this hall were opposed by representatives of nations . me _Zÿ, It is, however, explicitly stated in in many parts of the world who complained of the lack of freedom. This draft resolution should offer encouragement to the democratic forces working for the freedom of suppressed nations by peacefulmeans. Many Of the nations now suppressed may today think iI $t justify.... ÷ÿ1 postponement ÿ,ch time as conditions of the transition improve. to i - endencÿ ÿ*ÿ ÿ that the horizon is dark but they will hardly give up MaY I say in conclusion that it would be only hope. This draft resolution will undoubtedly justify and strengthen them in keeping up their hopes. Here to assumeare in a that hurry the and peoples that it shouldwho wish not to be attain pos- we must rejoice in the existence of the United by pretexts that are more or less invented to Nations. As I see it, the United Nations has so far em from attaining freedom. I would put it played its most decisive role in assisting by peaceful better freedom and independence too early means in making so many peoples free and independ- ! too late. But while stressing this wish most ent. We hope that it will be possible, through our we should not overlook the problems international Organization, by peaceful means, to secure for all nations, without distinction as to race, facing us in this respect. One important aspect should colour or geographical location, the freedom to which t e borne in mind. When all advocates of the libera- the people of all countries have an absolute right. 0n of formerly dependent peoples invoke democratic ideals and principles for the attainment of that goal, 182. It is on the basis of these views that Den- it would indeed be disgraceful ff groups of people in mark will vote in favour of the African-Asian draft race of newly established States subsequently exploit the in- resolution. adequate development of the population to introduce 183. The PRESIDENT (translated from Spanish): I not a democratic rule, but dictatorship, which actually delays and impedes necessary social and political call upon the representative of Austria, who wishes i peoples to speak in explanation of his voÿe. i: [eal of developments. 178. The comments I have made here on paragraph 184. Mr. MATSCH (Austria): ! am most grateful 3 may be said also to apply to paragraph 5, which to the President for giving me the floor to explain act reads as follows: briefly the position of my delegation. been I ,immediate steps shall be taken, in Trust and 185. We have heard a most interesting debate, a Non-Self-Governing Territories or all other terri- debate which was initiated by the delegation of the tories which have not yet attained independence, to USSR, to whom our thanks are due. My delegation transfer all powers to the peoples of those Terri- will vote for the draft resolution which has been sub- tories, without any conditions or reservations in mitted by forty-three delegations from Africa and accordance with their freely expressed will and Asia [A/L.323 and Add.l-6]. They are pleading their desire, without any distinction as to race, creed or own cause, a just cause, and we are glad to support colour, in order to enable them to enjoy complete them. independence and freedom." 186. My country has never been what is termed It appears from statements made by responsible today a colonial Power, nor did the old Austro- cial or speakers that it is recognized that the meaning of the Hungarian Empire possess any colonies. This is a ve as a pÿ words "immediate steps shall be taken" is that we well-known fact. We have no first-hand knowledge of i! shall proceed towards the goal and shall not allow the experiences and conditions in colonies and have, therecol ourselves to be stopped by unnecessary hindrance. therefore, not taken part in the debate. But the Aus- trian people, on whose behalf I have the honour to the meÿ This is in conformity with the view I have just speak here, have always been in sympathy with the :ation be thÿ expressed. struggle of nations and peoples which have not en- vent traÿ 179. Our critical comments on certain passages of joyed full freedom. We have, therefore, been de- litical, eÿi the draft resolution do not, however, prevent us from lighted to see that after the Second World War many .ÿrritory c0ÿ voting for it; this so much more, as it contains great and many small nations have become independ- selvesw0 several highly desirable statements. I am thinking of ent and we have been happy to establish contacts and the following: firm and cordial relations with them. We know by our coblem whi "Convinced that all peoples have an inalienable own experience the value of freedom, because for mrealistic right to complete freedom, the exercise of their seventeen long years we were deprived of it, and I independe! sovereignty and the integrity of their national believe that one never values something more than r the popu territory. • when one has lost it. eetive ofÿ A more satisfactory wording could perhaps have been 187. Furthermore, we believe that freedom is as s reache& f0und. However, we interpret it as a pIedge given to indivisible as peace, and as long as there are coun- is extremi all nations. tries and peoples that have not attained their freedom :ion. ÿ':i! 180. In previous resolutions certain continents were we ,who enjoy our own freedom will not be secure. 1at has tÿ mentioned by name. While ours--Europe--was not, its May I say in parenthesis that we believe in my coun- 3, I people of course have the same right to freedom and try that this high principle does not only apply to Lain :independence as all other peoples, i think that the nations and peoples but also to the individual. As long as personal freedom and the rule of law have not "red at a Wording is good in so far as it says that all people been firmly established everywhere, the freedom of )aredo On , aave the right to complete freedom, and does noÿ ire have limit the attainment of freedom and independence to every man, woman and child anywhere will be in certain parts of the world. danger. fficultieS, t 188. It is for this reason that we shall vote for the :181. We know that there are many forms of sup- ,'rs of draft resolution as it stands. We shall do so although, e apt to Pression of people and of groups of people. During ijl i!: ! 1264 General Assembly- Fifteenth Session- Plenary Meetings

to be quite frank, we have certain misgivings with resolution, that we will support all meaÿ • within j lÿ ! ) regard to some of the expressions used in the decla- the limits of our own resources to establish the ration, some of the requests made and some of the political and economic independence, because w^ 1ÿ ' u beÿ procedures envisaged in it. In view of the high ideals lieve that one cannot exist without the other. The of freedom and the equality of all men on which the Austrian authorities are at present actively engaged declaration is based, we have felt, however, that such in exploring various possibilities °f co-op.erationwith considerations should not prevent us from giving it the newly independent nations, we snare their feeliag our full support. of urgency and we believe_that ÿney are justified in 189. May I take this opportunity of adding a further demanding high priority ior ÿneir request. We are observation. In voting for the declaration, we do not convinced that they in turn will make a most iÿnp0rÿ mean merely to pay lip service to the desires and tant contribution to our common aim, namely; the preservation of peace. i !i aspirations of the people emerging from colonial rule. We want to assure them, by voting for this draft The meeting rose at 6.30 p.m.

/ 1 Lkho in U.N. 7700 I--S eptember 1961--2,255