% 935th ited Nations PLENARY MEETING less ENERAL Monday, S December 1960, ex. at 3 p.m. Pare ASSEMBLY riod 'able fiFTEENTH SESSION NEW YORK cial Records Lken. AGENDA ITEM 33. )riles CONTENTS rate Page Assistance to refugees: 3ider ation Agenda item 19: (a_) Report o{ the United Nations High Commissioner for ', for Election of the United Nations High Commis- pula. Refugees; sioner for Refugees ...... 1129 (b) Report of the Secretary-General on the World Refu gee Year .ÿeen, 'ifwe Agenda item 33: REPORT OF THE THIRD COMMITTEE (A/4582) 'ÿ One Assistance to refugees: 6. The PRESIDENT: Unless there is a proposal to Led in (a) Report of the United Nations High Com- discuss the Third Committee's report under rule 68 missioner for Refugees; of the rules of procedure, interventions willbe limited ) Report of the Secretary-General on the Ls but World Refugee Year to explanations of vote. ehes, Report of the Third Committee ...... 1129 7. Miss HAMPTON (New Zealand), Rapporteur ofthe proud Third Committee: I have the honour to present the ongo- Agenda item 87: Declaration on the granting of independence to report of the Third Committee [A/4582] on item 33 colonial countries and peoples (contlnued). . 1130 of the Assembly's agenda. Under this item, the Com- mittee considered the 1960 report of the UnitedNations High Commissioner for Refugees [A/4378/Rev.1 and President: Mr. Frederick H. BOLAND (Ireland). Rev.1/Add.1] and also the report of the Secretary- General on the World Refugee Year [A/4546]. 'i, AGENDA ITEM 19 8. The past year has been marked by a considerable iiÿ leap forward in international endeavoUrs directedboth Election of the United Nations High Commissioner for to achieving final solutions for the refugee problems and to channelling assistance to particular groups of Refugees refugees not within the High Commissioner's mandate. Resulting from the discussions in the Committee of I. The PRESIDENT: The first item onthis afternoon's particular aspects of these questions, four draft reso- agenda is the election of the United Nations High Com- lutions are being recommended to the Assembly for missioner for Refugees to succeed Mr. August Lindt, adoption. who now leaves this post after four years of distin- 9. Draft resolution I, dealing with the report of the geished service. High Commissioner, invites States Members of the 2. Chapter Ill, paragraph 13, of the Statute of the United Nations and members of the specialized agen- Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for cies to continue to devote attention to refugee problems Refugees provides that "the High Commissioner shall still awaiting solution. It calls for continued efforts be elected by the General Assembly on the nomination to improve the legal status of refugees, to increase of the Secretary-General." [General Assembly reso- facilities for repatriation, resettlement and integra- tion, including, of course, financial contributions, lution 428 (V), annex.] and for consultations with the High Commissioner in 3. Members of the Assembly have before them anote respect of measures of assistance to refugees not by the Secretary-General on this" matter [A/4607]. In within the competence of the United Nations. this note, the Secretary-General informs the Assembly 10. Draft" resolution II recommends that the High that "he has nominated Mr. Fÿlix Schnyder (Switzer- Commissioner should continue his present action land) for the post of United Nations High Commis- on behalf of refugees from Algeria in Morocco and sioner for Refugees to succeed Mr. Auguste Lindt." Tunisia. He is also askedtousehis influence to ensure I am certain that I voice the feeling of the Assembly the continuation of the operation carried out on their in thanking the Secretary-General for this nomination. behalf jointly by his Office and the League of Red Cross Societies, and, in the event that this should 4. Unless a vote is requested, I would suggest that prove impossible, to draw up and exe cute a programme the Assembly might elect Mr. Sehnyder to be High for the assumption by his Office of responsibility for Commissioner for Refugees by acclamation. these refugees from 1 July 1961. Mr. Fdlix Schnyder was elected United Nations High 11. Draft resolution III is oeeasionedbythe imminent Commissioner for Refugees' by acclamation. departure of the High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Auguste Lindt, whose final year of office has 5. The PRESIDENT: I should like to take this oppor- coincided with the augmented international endeavours tunity to congratulate Mr. Sehnyder on the confidence associated with the World Refugee Year, and whose which the Assembly has placed in him and to wish successor, Mr. Fÿlix Schnyder, this ÿssembly has him everY success in his valuable work on behalf of the just endorsed. In terms of this draft resolution, the refugees. A/PV.935 1129 i

1130 General Assembly -- Fifteenth Session -- Plenary Meetings - -

Assembly is asked to express its appreciation to it appropriate to go into the matter in detail. HOWever-ÿ__ ÿt Mr. Lindt for the work he has performed during his at the 934th meeting on 3 December' 1960, the repre" years as United Nations High Commissioner for Refu- sentative of Mexico saw fit to refer to the case of gees and to wish him success in his future under- Belize in connexion with my statement, and stated the takings. In the Committee, this text was accepted problem in a form open to misunderstanding andmisÿ without voting and the Assembly may wish to follow interpretation. a similar procedure. 18. My delegation thanks the representative of Mexico 12. Draft resolution IV relates to the World Refugee for giving it the opportunity to go into the problem Year. It notes with gratification the remarkable suc- of Belize in more detail. My delegation wishes to state • cess of the World Refugee Year in many parts of the once again, as it has been doing for several years, that world, expresses thanks to those who have contributed the claim recently put forward by Mexico regarding to the success of the Year, as well as to the Secretary- rights in the territory of Belize which it would ad- General and his Special Representative for their ef- vance if that territory's status should be changed in forts, and concludes with the recommendation that response to Guatemala's demands, is not, under any further endeavours be made to assist refugees. circumstances or for any reason, to be regarded as • 13. I have the honour, on behalf of the Third Com- a move made jointly or in concert with my country, which has claimed exclusive rights to the territory mittee, to recommend to the General Assembly the for over 100 years. adoption of these four draft resolutions. May I say 19. I should like to add a few comments on this mat- that, in doing so, the General Assembly, while record- I. ter. The Belize problem is purely and simply a case ing its satisfaction with the progress made in dealing of seizure of territory by a great Power from a weak with the refugee questions and with the encouraging country which lacked the means to ensure that its result of action at so many levels and throughout rights were respected. It is truethat, as the repre- widely scattered areas of the world, would stress the sentative of Mexico said, the occupation of the terri- need for continued efforts on behalf of those groups, tory began in virtue of the permits for timber felling which must surely have special appeal to the world granted to Great Britain by Spain under the treaty of social conscience, in order to achieve solutions of 1773, for the area from the river Hondo to the river this problem in a truly humanitarian fashion. Belize, and the treaty of 1776, .which added the area 14. The PRESIDENT: If no representative wishes to between the river Hondo and the river Sibfin. In both explain his vote on any of the four draft resolutions treaties, Spain expressly reserved its sovereignty recommended in the report of the Third Committee over the territory while granting the British the usu- [A/4582 para. 63], I propose to put them, one by one, fruct thereof free of charge, subject to certain re- to the Assembly. strictions, particularly with regard to the right to build fortifications. These concessions lay within the Draft resolution I was adopted by 66 votes to none, Captaincy-General of Guatemala, in the Province of with 10 abstentions. Petÿn; the river Hondo separated the Captaincy- Draft resolution H was adopted by 77 votes to none, General of Guatemala from the Captaincy of Yucatan. with 1 abstention. 20. When the CaptaincY-General of Guatemala was 15. The PRESIDENT: Draft resolution III, entitled declared independent on 15 September 1821, the "Expression of appreciation to the United Nations High Federal Republic of Central America was formed and i Commissioner for Refugees", was adopted without a inherited all rights of sovereignty over the territories vote in the Third Committee. Unless some repre- which it covered. The United Kingdom's precarious sentative wishes the draft resolution to be put to the usufruct of the Belize area expired in virtue of inter- vote here, perhaps the Assembly would be prepared national law, inasmuch as new States start their inde- to signify its approval of this draft resolution by ac- pendent existence free ,of all commitments made by clamation. the previous sovereign, such commitments being r_ÿes Draft resolution III was adopted by acclamation. inter alios aeta.

Draft resolution IV was adopted by 71 votes to none, 21. The independent existence of the Federal Republic with 10 abstentions. of Central America was beset by many trials; the L:! great Power in question, wishing to gain "control of .AGENDA ITEM 87 the canal routes, worked for its division. The Federal Republic of Central America was unable to secure Declaration on the granting of independence to colonial recognition by the United Kingdom save at the price of cession of the territory of Belize. It also extended, countries and peoples (continued) by way of the Mosquitia shore and the Bay islands, to 16. The PRESIDENT: Before I come to the list of the territories of Honduras and Nicaragua. speakers inscribed today on the item before us: I give 22. When the Federal Republic of Central America the floor to the representative of Guatemala in exer- was dissolved and divided into the five independent cise of his right of reply. Republics of Guatemala, E1 Salvador, Honduras, 17. Mr. HERRARTE (Guatemala} (translated from Nicaragua and Costa Riea, each with jurisdiction Spanish} : In its statement in the general debate on the over the territory of the corresponding former State, item "Declaration on the granting of independence to the territory of Belize fell within the jurisdiction of colonial countries and peoples", the delegation of Guatemala under the rule of uti possidetis. Guatemala mentioned in passing the wrongful occu- pation of the Guatemalan territory of Belize by the 23. The serious threat that loomed over the Central United Kingdom, but, in view of the general nature of American States was to some extent dispelled by the the item now under discussion., we did not consider Clayton-Bulwer Treaty of 1850, under which Great :ÿ 935th meeting -- 5 DecEmber 1960 1131

Britain and the United States undertook not to occupy different from the historical reality. I should also like any part of Central America. to remind the Mexican representative of what his country means to us. We are proud of the historical case of 24 For reasons which I need not go into here, and and cultural bonds between us. For the small countries tated the under the pressure of circumstances, the Government and raisÿ of Guatemala was forcedto conclude with Great Britain of Central America, Mexico is like an elder brother. We admire its great civic deeds, its nobility, its deep the Convention of 1859. This was a realtreaty of ees- and increased the area of the territory from and historical sense of continental solidarity, and its relations with our peoples have always been most cor- 6,000 to more than 22,000 square kilometres. It con- problem dial. We are therefore entitled to expect from that tained a compensation clause with which the United s to state. great country what Benito Juÿtrez, one of its greatest Kingdom did not comply; Guatemala has therefore ars, that men, expressed in the monumental words: "Peace is denounced the treaty, but the United Kingdom has not respect in the rights of others". returned the territory wrongfully held. 25. The Government of Mexico concluded with the 29. Mr, OBEID (Sudan): May my first words in this United Kingdom Government in 1893 a frontier treaty brief intervention be words of tribute and congratula- under which the river Hondo--the boundary between tion to the delegation of the Soviet Union, under the countryI the Captaincy of Yucatÿin and the Captaincy-General leadership of Premier Khrushchev, for having taken Lerritory: of Guatemala in colonial times, as we have seen--was the very timely initiative of proposing that this item recognized as the frontier between the territory of be placed on the agenda of this session and for having Belize and the Province of Yucatÿtn., in Mexico. The ing successfully advocated its discussion in plenary ;his mat4 meeting. ly a case Minister for Foreign Affairs of Mexico recognized TI a weak at the time that the 1859 Convention between Great 30. The progress of the debate thus far has demon- that its Britain and Guatemala had been a treaty concerning strated with devastating force the depth of convictions Le repre- the cession of territory, that the only issue with Mexico guiding the freedom-loving peoples of the world in this he terri- :: was one of boundaries and that no sacrifice of Mexican determined struggle to eradicate a sinister phenome- territory was involved. non from which humanity has suffered only too long 26. At this point, I should like to remindthe Mexican and which has generated much poison in the relations representative of what some illustrious Mexicans have between man and man. said in connexion with the Guatemalan case regarding 31. I believe that everything that ought to be said has Belize. General Eduardo Hay, the Minister for For- been said by the more enlightened speakers who have eign Affairs of Mexico, in a very cordial note to the preceded me to this rostrum and I am, therefore, not Guatemalan Foreign Ministry in 1939, recognized going to protract this debate by covering the same Guatemala's rights to Belize "in accordance", as he ground again. It is not my intention to go into the put it, "with the historical, geographical and legal details of the history of colonialism; but I shall try background to the case". General Lÿizaro Cÿfrdenas, to follow a brighter theme--that of the struggle against the President of Mexico, said in a statement in 1940: colonialism which has resulted in freedom and in- ,,Just as Mexico feels strengthened by these proofs dependence. : of solidarity, it also feels bound to reciprocate, 32. Two conceptions have, over the years, been de- mala was:i either by making proposals for peace or neutrality veloped by the colonial Powers as justifications for 1821, or by supporting the territorial claims of sister dominating others. In the first place, they tellus that, rmed nations which, like Guatemala in Belize, justly seek in subjugating the colonial peoples, they have a civiliz- rritories the settlement of long-standing disputes and the recarioÿ'; healing of mutilations inflicted by force and in de- ing mission to perform. In the second place, they tell of inter2 fiance of the rules of international law." us that they have been entrusted with that mission because they are superior. This latter conceptionwent 27. The same attitude of solidarity has been shown to the heads of some of the colonial Powers to an ex- by the Central American Republics on several occa- tent that it has developed into a policy as sinister and sions and more particularly in the Declaration of Prin- as diabolical as colonialism itself and which we now ciples of Central American Co-Existence (Declaration call "racialismÿ. It does not need much ingenuity to of Antigua Guatemala), which included the following: discover the flimsiness and even absurdity of such "The First Meeting of Ministers for Foreign theories. Civilization is one of those great words that ,ontrol : Affairs of Central America declares, on behalf of has so far defied definition. Theories of racial su- .e the States represented:... Seventhly: its rejection periority have led their propagators to nothing but to securÿ of the survival of colonialism in America and its inevitable and all-embracing disaster, and history the express statement that the territory of Belize is an sometimes repeats itself. It is not naive to state that integral part of Guatemalan, andtherefore of Central these theories are used to cover the exploitation of slands, American, territory, and that the action taken to peoples and to justify the enjoyment of the material reclaim it concerns all the States signatories of this fruits of their land and their labour. But human beings, Declaration., by their very nature, cannot accept or tolerate foreign domination and the injustice, humiliation and degrada- 28. It would take a long time to narrate the Guate- -thention that for thosepeoplesnecessarily accompany to rise, to resist, it. It was and only to struggle natural ,malan people's unremitting, heroic and worthy struggle Ior the victory of their just cause. We have heard the to redeem a birthright. These resistance movements VOices of the most eminent jurists and public figures against colonialism were rather isolated in the early Of our continent raised in encouragement and support days of colonialism. The odds were heavy, the condi- of our right. It is consequently painful to us that, in tions were adverse, the costs were incalculable, count- recent years, the delegation of Mexico has advanced less lives were lost or sacrificed, prisons overflowed at the United Nations claims which it had never pre- with what the colonialists called "agitators" but who Viously made, which are opportunist in character, were, in fact, freedom lovers. But the will of God and and which present the Belize problem in a form very the determination of his creatures to redeem what he 1132 General Assembly -- Fifteenth Session -- Plenary Meetings • has decreed for them prevailed against injustice and "Recoÿ that the existence of colonialism in inequality. any shape or form is a threat to the security and independence of the African States and to World 33. Rivalries between the colonialPowershelpedthis peace, liberation movement. Many times, and notably during the last two wars, they tried to win the colonial peoples "Considering that the problems and the future of to their side and gave them glittering promises which dependent territories 'in Africa are not the exclusive were soon to be forgotten after the hour of distress concern of the Colonial Powers but the responsibility was over. But the colonial peoples did notforget; they of all Members of the United Nations and in partieuÿ accelerated their efforts and intensified their struggle, lar of the Independent African States, so that the colonial Powers were, inthe end, forced to "Condemning categorically all colonial systems concede to them what was theirs--their independence. still enforced in our Continent and which impose 34. The besÿ example of these promises unfulfilled arbitrary rule and repression on the peoples of is the famous Arab revolt. When the First World War Africa, broke out and Turkey joined the side of Germany, the "Convinced that a definite date should 5e set for Allies encouraged the Arabs--who were under Turkey the attainment ofindependenceby each of the Colonial then--to revolt. They promised them complete inde- Territories in accordance with the will of the people pendence after victory. The Arabs revolted, fought of the territories and the provisions of the Charter bravely on the side of the Allies and, within two to of the United Nations, three years, the Turks were driven out of Arabia, Syria, Palestine and Lebanon. To the dismay of the "1. Calls upon the Administering Powers to respect Arabs, it was soon discovered that the Allies had made the Charter of the United Nations inthis regard, and a secret treaty between them, called the Sykes-Picot to take rapid steps to implement the provisions of Agreement, sharing, amongst themselves, the Arab the Charter and the political aspirations of the people world. Not only that, but by the Balfour Declaration, namely self-determination and independence, ac- Great Britain promised the creation of a national home cording to the will of the people; for the Jews in Palestine againstthe clearly expressed "2. Calls upon the Administering Powers to refrain wish of the overwhelming majority of the P alestinians. from repression and arbitrary rule in these terri- The tragic consequences of that unfortunate decision tories and to respect all human rights as provided are well known, since they have been with us here in for in the Charter of the United Nations and the the United Nations for the last thirteen years. Universal Declaration of Human Rights; 35. But the Arabs did not succumb. They continued "3. Calls upon the Administering Powers to bring the bitter fight even after the Allies had won the war to bring to an end immediately every form of dis- and imposed their authority over the Arab world. crimination in these territories; Again, the wishes of the people and their indomitable determination to realize them prevailed and most of "4. Recommends that all •Participating Govern- the Arab countries of the Middle East have achieved ments- should give all possible assistance to the their complete independence. It is regrettable that one dependent peoples in their struggle to achieve self- of ihe Arab countries in that area is still fighting for determination and independence; its independence, but we hope itwillnotbe long before "5. Recommends that the Independent African States Palestine will join the free nations of the world, in assembled here should offer facilities for training spite of attempts to keep it in the present forced and educating peoples of the dependent territories; desert camp settlement. "6. Decides that the 15th April of every year be 36. The sacrifice and endurance of the colonial peo- celebrated as Africa Freedom Day." ples during their struggle were worth while: after the Second World War, many Afro-Asian countries, led My purpose in quoting this resolution infull is to have by the great peoples of the Indian Sub-continent and it recorded in the annals of the United Nations. by Burma, Ceylon and Indonesia, gained their inde- 38. This is how and why the presentliberationmove- pendence. merit in Africa gathered force and brought the sweeping change in the continent. Just this year, sixteenAfriean 37. This episode brings us to the new and auspicious countries gained their independence and others are era of the collective rise against colonialism. The on the way to independence. It is the collective will leaders of the independent Asian andAfrican countries and stand of all Africa for freedom and independence realized that the plight of the colonial peoples in Asia that brought the change and determined to eradicate and Africa was the same and that their colleeiive colonialism and racialism from the soft of Africa. efforts against colonialism would be more effective Africa--a continent that has for so !ong been ravished than their individual action. Hence, the epoch-making by the scourge of colonialism and its concomitants- Asian-African Conference held at Bandung in 1955, has shaken its chains. It will not wear them again. which constitutes a veritable landmark in man's re- lentless and purposeful march on the road of liberty 39. We, the African people, who have suffered so much and independence. The lofty principles adopted by tlÿe and who have now, through our own efforts and with Conference are ever inspiring and shall always stand the assistance of the freedom-loving peoples, achieved as a beacon of liberty ÿand freedom. Then followed the our independence, realize the difference between our first Conference of Independent African States, held miserable past and thebright present, and stillbrighter at Acc ra in 1958. All Africa listened and held its breath future. It has been demonstrated beyond any doubtthat for its results. It adopted forceful resolutions, par- countries progress more rapidly in. all fields after ticularly in the sphere of freedom and the future of independence. dependent territories in Africa. Resolution H reads: 40. In the report of the Committee on Information "The C onferencÿ of Independent African States, from Non-Self-Governing Territories (A/4371, patti, ,% 935th meeting -- 5 December 1960 1133 i

44. In its declaration of 28 September 1959, in re- ra. 23), the representatives of India and Iraq stated sponse to General de Gaulle's declaration, the Pro- mm although in the past the Administering Members .? Lt, visional Government of Algeria agreedwiththe French 'and held that self-government should be the culmina- position that the right of self-determination should rorld of a long process of economic and social devel- be the basis for a solution of the Algerian problem. Li It also agreed with the French Government that re- )pment,essed experience more rapidly had after shown they that had the become Territories self- re of course to universal suffrage as a means of determin- ,rning or independent. The representative of India mive ing the political future of Algeria cannot take place emphasized that the Committee should consider without the return of peace, it only asked for an op- the progress achieved but what more should ! ticu- portunity to discuss with France the political and and could be done. Moreover, it was important that military conditions for the cease-fire and the con- ,terns the progress should be assessed not only in terms of ditions and guarantees for the application of tlÿe statistics and percentages, but also by the extent to principle of self-determination. This was a natural Ipose which the needs or aspirations of the people had been es of demand. But, from what transpired during the year met. Re emphasized that it couldno longerbe accepted since P resident de Gaulle's declaration, Franee seems the attainment of freedom by peoples in Non-Self- insistent that any discussions regarding the cease-fire Governing Territories should be made conditional on st for : or regarding the conditions and modalities of any meet- lonial their prior attainment of certain standards in other ing between France and the representatives of the )eople • fields. Provisional Government of Algeria should be unilat- iJ Latter 41. Judging by our own experience, we totally agree erally decided by France. We have ample proof of with these views. It has been proved beyond doubt that this from what took place at Melun between 25 and mpect colonialism is sterile and cannot contribute to pro- 29 June of this year. The conditions made by France d, and at that meeting--these conditions and modalities of a ons of marchgress. Theof struggle African toindependent free the remaining States followed part of the meeting between French and Algerian delegations-- ?eople were described by a former French PrimeMinister, continent. The three conferences in Accra, Monrovia iI , ac- and Addis Ababa intensified the pressure against Mr. Mendes-France, as follows and I quote- "conditions ,'if colonialism. But in spite of the mÿreh of freedom, we so humiliating that they were equivalent to a demand I i efrain. find today some colonial Powers which hide their for capitulation." terri- ,ads in the sand. Portugal follows the most oppressive ovided and degrading policy in its African colonies of Mozam- 45. But the valiant Algerian people, who have fought ,rid the bique, Angola, Guinea and others. Its policy can easily so long and so courageously for an honourable cause, be compared with the racialist policy of the Union of will not capitulate to the weight of French armour, South Africa, which is also applied in the Territory because they have the right on their side and the right ) bring: of South West Africa. We should like these two coun- will ultimately win. of dis- tries to watch the tempo of the time and to act in 46. We are convinced that Algeriawillbe independent harmony with the requirements of the age in which and that the representatives of Algeria will soon be over]l- they, and we, live. These people will not be forsaken sitting amongst us here. We are happy that today the to theÿ or forgotten. They will find assistance from allAfrica United Nations decided to throw its moral weight e self- " and the freedom-loving countries, until they achieve against colonialism and for the independence of sub- their independence. We call upon the administering jugated peoples. It has contributed greatly in the move- Powers responsible for the affairs of Rhodesia, Nyasa- States ment of progress and independence of Trust and Non- land, Kenya, Uganda, Malta, West Sahara, Somalia raining : Self-Governing Territories. It is acting in accordance territory under France, and West Irian to accede to [tories; :: with the determination proclaimed by the peoples of the will, wishes and aspirations of the peoples of these the world in the Charter of the United Nations- year be :::!: territories. "... to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, 42. As for Algeria, the greatest tragedy of our time, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the so much has been said but very little has been done equal rights of men and women and of nations large to put an end to a brutal war now in its seventh year. and small, With every day that passes, this war in Algeria be- . ..to promote social progress and better stan- eeping comes more and more furious. Loss of human life-- African both French and Algerian--mounts by the hour. More dards of life in larger freedom, ". ers are than one-fourth of the population of Algeria are held in prisons and internment camps where they are sub- 47. To us, the draftresolution[A/L.323 andAdd.l-5], jected to the rnost cruel and humiliating treatment. of which my delegation has the honour to be a co- This latter aspect of this inhuman war was shockingly sponsor, marks the climax of the struggle and the Africa. ÿ revealed in a report of the International Committee formal denunciation of colonialism in any form or :avished of the Red Cross and was the subject of a strong pro- shape. We are convinced that the continued existence dtants--.i test addressed to the Secretary-General by twenty of colonialism prevents the development of inter- gain. • Mro-Asian Members of the United Nations in February national co-operation, impedes the social, cultural and of this year. economic development of dependent peoples and mili- tates against the United Nations ideals of universal eace. We are convinced that the craving of dependent 43. This was the tragic result of the French Govern- ment,s not abidingby President de Gaulle's recognition peoples for freedom and independence is natural and veen our rational and that the process of liberation is irresisti- of the right of the Algeriali people to self-determina- ble and irreversible, and, in order to avoid serious tion. The behaviour of the Provisional Government of crises, an end must beputto colonialism and all prac- A}geria, since President de Gaulle's declaration of tices of segregation and discrimination asSoeiatedwith 16 September 1959, has consistentlybeen character- ized by a sense of responsibility, political maturity, it. The United Nations is richer and stronger with the emergence of the new independent States, andwemust statesmanship and peaceful intentions. I',17 "ÿ] ÿ

1¸ ; I 1!ÿI 1134 General Assembly--Fifteenth Session- Plenary Meetings

see that all peoples of the world are free and loyal 54. We are afraid 0f 0ÿe thing and thisÿ:ÿ Members of the United Nations. any other subject, it might alsobe treated by certa;.,: interested pariies asÿ an item for coldwar pÿopdgandÿ:ÿ:i 48. The policy of my Government towards the freedom But to us, in Asia and Africa, who have experienced movement in Africa is well defined and set forth clear- colonial domination in the past and are even now seeing :: ly. It leaves no room for doubt. We shall help, moral- the true picture of colonialism with its grim eonse. ly and materially, all African peoples stiÿuggling for quenceÿ to the people under its yoke, this is a matter freedom, independence and equality. In a recent com- which should not be treated lightly and must not be nuniquÿ, the President of the United Arab Republic allowed to be given the cold war treatment in this and the President of the Republic of the Sudan declared debate. To us it is something which is vital to the their condemnationofthepoliciesdesignedtosubjugate evolution of a new world order based on freedora, and enslave the peoples, or to undermine human dig- justice and equality for all men, irrespective of nity because of colour, race or creed. They also de- their colour or the region to which they belong. In clared that they will continue to support the cause of our opinion, this is the kind of world order which is national liberation of the African countries which are envisaged in the Charter of the United Nations itself. yet to achieve independence. They condemned all nefarious attempts aimed at disorganizing this libera- 55. We were heartened and gratified to hear Mr. David tion struggle and supported all attempts to uproot Ormsby-Gore, theMinisterofStateforForeignAffairs colonialism and racialism from African soil. of the United Kingdom, remark earlier in the course of his intervention on this subject: 49. We shall not remain silent in the face of injustice "Let me say at once that the United Kingdom nor fail to criticize whatever is manifestly wrong.We delegation is in entire sympathy with what I know shall always express ourviews honestly and fearlessly to be the ...main purposes of these delegations,,-. and shall always render any assistance within our from the context it follows that these delegations power to freedom fighters all over the world until are the Asian and African delegations--"the achieve- freedom and justice for all peoples throughout the ment with all possible speed of full self-government world are ensured. and independence by those people who do not yet enjoy these things." [925th meeting, para. 32.] 50. In conclusion, we hope that the draft resolution will be carried unanimously and that its implementa- The Minister of State for ForeignAffairs of the United tion will immediately follow its adoption. The goodwill Kingdom referred--and I must say rightly--to the obli- and the co-operation of the Administering Powers are gations the colonial Powers have undertaken under hopefully sought in rising to this challenge. We shall Article 73 of the United Nations Charter.Butthe ques- expect them to try to forget the theories with which tion is how many of the colonial Powers, even to this they sought to justify colonialism. On our part, we day, have shown respect for these obligations in their • shall also try to forget and what we cannot forget we colonial policies. shall try to forgive. • 56. Yet, from another point of .view, the speed with which the Government of the United Kingdom itself !ÿ" 51. Mr. SHAHA (Nepal}: My delegation welcomes the initiative of the delegation of the USSR in spon- might have advanced the cause of self-government in different colonies--Trust and Non-Self-Governing soring the item entitled "Declaration on the granting Territories under its administration--mighthavebeen of independence to colonial countries and peoples". We feel that the time has come for the United Nations "remarkable in the light of the expectations of the world in 1946"ÿthese are the words of Mr. David to pronounce itself clearly and unequivocally on the Ormsby-Gore [ibid., para. 35J--but the relevant ques- necessity and urgency of unconditionally ending colo- tion is whether this speed with which self-government { nialism in all its forms and manifestations. has been advanced in the above-mentioned Territories satisfies the growing demands of world public opinion 52. The advanced thiÿng and the enlightened con- science of mankind in thÿ mid-twentieth century has in 1960. far outstripped even the mbÿst radical and progressive 57. As we have said before, if the United Nations is concepts of colonialism, n6ÿatter what justification to keep pace with events in the world and with the the colonial Powers themselves may have for their growth of consciousness among the peoples of the own policies and actions in thisÿ]cegard. It is true that world in this regard, the time has come for it to de- some countries have a better colonial record than clare its position on this questioÿ in clear and un- others, but this alone does not entitle those countries mistakable terms. We know that the Principles and with a more favourable record to seek justification Purposes of the United Nations Charter, andthe chap- for the pursuit of their colonial policy in the changed ters in it dealing with international economic and circumstances of the present-day world. social co-operation and the international trusteeship 53. We might have some reservations of our own system are oriented towards the eventual eradication with regard to the form of the Soviet declaration on of colonialism. But that alone does not seemto satisfy the granting of independence to colonial countries and the rising expectations of the peoples in the countries peoples [A/4502 and Corr.1], but it cannot be denied ÿ that are still under colonial domination. This is the that the Soviet declaration brings this idea of the main reason thathas led us, along with so many other ending of colonialism into a sharp focus. Every Mem- Asian and African delegations, to co-sponsor the ber should realize the importance and seriousness of draft resolution. this matter that is presently being debated and should direct all its efforts and attention towards enabling 58. For understandable reasons, my .delegation does the peoples still under colonial dominationintheworld not wish to go into the origins of colonialism at this to realize their aspirations for freedom and inde- stage, nor does it wish to analyse iÿs causes and mo- pendence in the immediate future. tives. In our opinion, colonialism, as a force in inter- 935th meeting -- 5 December 1960 1135

ational politics, has to be examined in terms of its 64. We recognize that remarkable progress hasbeen made since the last war towards the emancipation of effects on international relations. Judged in this light, the colonial peoples. People who have become free it has proved to be an unmitigated evil which has not are far larger in number than people Who still remain onlyalso vitiated has theled relationsto wars betweenbetween thethe colonial peoplesPowers to be freed. But since a large number of people have attained freedom, the continuation of a smaller number elves. . in the dependent status has become even more un- acceptable and more irritating. Judging from the 59. The history of the scramble for Africa in the last century, and even in the early twentieth century, intensity of bitterness that continued colonialism engenders, not only in the minds of the peoples of worldbears War testimony gave new to thisimpetus fact. to The the endfreedom of the movement Second the dependent countries, but also in the minds of in Asia and Africa and, as a result of the general peoples who have recently freed themselves from awakening that ensued, quite a few countries in Asia colonialism, we are persuaded to believe that the and Africa attained their independence and freedom continuation of colonialism, even in smallterritories, and took their rightful places in the community of is undesirable. The volume and intensity of ill feeling alone seem to outweigh all other considerations, prac- nations. tical or otherwise, that might be cited in favour of 60. If there has been any subject onwhiehthe nations ,!/ maintaining the status quo in a particular territory. of Asia and Africa have been able,to put up a united front before the world, it has beenthat of colonialism. 65. In these circumstances, it would have been most The Conference of the African-Asian nations held at fitting if the colonial Powers themselves had taken ,ngdom.ÿ:: Bandung in April 1955 gave an answer to the question the initiative to persuade the United Nations to declare i know/! as to how the peoples of Asia and Africa stand on this itself in unmistakable terms against colonialism. subject. Colonialism, as it was understood in the nineteenth century and has been understood so far, is definitely 61. It is our sincere belief that colonialism is no in its death throes, and the colonial Powers have longer tenable, that it is indeed on its last legs and themselves realized this. We hope, therefore, that all that a final effort must be made, here and now, for its the States Members of this Organization will find it complete eradication. The Soviet initiative has given possible to support the forty-two-Power draft resolu- us an opportunity to reaffirm our faith in the lofty tion which has been submitted to the General Assembly principles of the Charter in relation to colonialism on behalf of the Asian and African group. In the opinion ;! and declare ourselves finally andunequivocally against of its sponsors, the question of colonialism is far too !i it. In the opinion of my delegation, a solemn declaration serious a subject, and in the drafting of the text care to the effect that colonialism must and will go quite has been taken to make it acceptable to all. a long way to inspire hope and confidence in the minds of the peoples of the world, and particularly those of 66. I shooud like to explain the draft resolutionwhich Asia and Africa, who have suffered and continue to we have the honour to co-sponsor with forty-one other Suffer most from colonialism. Powers. I do not wish to refer to its preambular 62. As I have already said, my delegation is aware paragraphs in detail, because they do not contain any- that different colonial Powers have different colonial thing which is not already contained in the United :records and these Powers make different kinds of Nations Charter and which has not, as such, been claims as tothe success or failure of the colonial accepted by the Members of this Organization. J_fthere system. Over-enthusiastic colonial thinkers have even are any suggestions with regard to improvement of tended to regard colonialism as an unmixed blessing. the phrasing of these paragraphs, they could be con- According to them, colonialism is just an extension sidered by the sponsors, but I need hardly add that of the great European liberal tradition of the eighteenth the process in which United Nations resolutions are drafted and prepared is not always conducive to the and nineteenth centuriesÿa movement of civilization /- itself. The adoption of this attitude towards colonialism production of the best text. has led many colonial Powers to make extravagant 67. The first preambular paragraph speaks of the • Claims on behalf of their colonies. For instance, it is determination proclaimed by the peoples of the world sometimes claimed that a strong colonial Power has in the same words in which it is expressed in the established unity where there was chaos before. More- Preamble of the United Nations Charter. The second i over, statistics are adduced to prove that there has preambular paragraph is obviouslybased onArticle 55 i i been constant social and economic progress in the of Chapter IX of the Charter that deals with inter- colonies. national economic and social co-operation; and the remaining paragraphs merely state facts orprinciples 63. My delegation, while admitting that the balance- of international co-operation and conduct that have sheet of colonialism is far.from uniform, as applied been accepted by all. We do not think that any delega- j: i to the records of different colonial Powers, believes tion represented here will have any serious objections that colonialism is unsatisfactory as a system of to the preambular paragraphs as such. relations among nations. European liberalism has achieved many wonderful things no doubt, but colo- 68. The final eommuniquÿ of the Asian-African Con- nialism is not one of its strongest points. In the face ference at Bandung shows that the Conference was, of poverty and backwardness, which .are wide-spread inter alia, agreed on the following: first, in declaring !, over the colonies and former colonies in Asia and that colonialism, in all its manifestations, is an evil Africa, in the face of wide-spread disturbance inmany which should speedily be brought to an end; secondly, such territories before and after independence, and in in affirming that the subjection of peoples to alien the face of complete balkanization of continents such subjugation, domination and exploitation constitutes a as that occurring in the continent of Africa at the denial of fundamental human rights, is contrary tothe present moment, claims of unity, order and progress Charter of the United Nations and is an impediment • made on behalf of colonies appear to us unjustified. to the promotion of world peace and co-operation; General Assembly -- Fifteenth Session -- Plenary Meetings 1136 74. The sixth principle cautions, in the light of the thirdly, in declaring its support ofthecause of freedom living experience of the colonial territories, against and independence for all such peoples; and finally, in any attempt on the part of the colonial Powers at the calling upon the Powers concerned to grant freedom partial or total disruption of the national unity and and independence to such peoples. the territorial integrity of the colonial countryby stat. ing that such attempts would be incompatible with the 69. The operative part of the forty-two-Power draft Charter of the United Nations. • resolution begins with the words: 75. Paragraph 7 merely reiterates and reaffirms ,Solÿ_pzoclaims the necessity of bringing to that all States shall observe the provisions of the a speedy and unconditional end colonialism in all its declaration along with those of the United Nations forms and manifestations; Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human "And to this end Rights, on the basis of equality, non-interference in the internal affairs of all States, and respect for the "Declares that: sovereign rights of all peoples and their territorial "l. The subjection of peoples to alien subjugation, integrity. The principles that have been put forward domination and exploitation constitutes a denial of as the basis for the observance of the above-mentioned fundamental human rights, is contrary to the Charter provisions of the Charter and the Universal Declara- of the United Nations and is an impediment to the tion of Human Rights are manifestly the principles promotion of world peace and co-operati0n." which have been enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations itself and generally acceptedby every Member As is clear, these paragraphs are based on the text of this Organization. of the final communiquG of the Asian-African Confer- ence at Bandung. It is also to be noted that the second 76. We commend this draft resolution to the unanimous Conference of Independent African States which met acceptance of the Members of this Assembly. at Addis Ababa from 14 to 26 June 1960 voiced the 77. Nit, pAZÿAK (Afghanistan): The serious inter- same sentiments and aspirations in its resolutions on est demonstrated in the consideration of the item the eradication of colonial rule in Africa. before the General Assembly is in itself evidence of 70. The second principle in the operative part of the the great importance which the people of the World and draft resolution relates to the right of self-determina- the United Nations attach to the necessity of an im- tion and is based on article 1 of the draft Covenant mediate end to the system of domination of peoples on Human Rights dealing with the right of self- and nations. I ÿ1o not see any needto restate my coun- determination which has been accepted by most of try's traditional firm policy of full support of the absolute elimination of the system of domination in the Members of this Assembly. all its forms and manifestations. Our stand on this 71. The third principle is self-explanatory andmerely matter is not only clear but has been outstanding. implies that political, economic, social or educational 78. In my intervention of 12 October 1960 before the unpreparedness must not be used as a pretext for ,Ii! ;'I, General Assembly [902nd meeting], I emphasized that delaying independence. a declaration on the abolition of Colonialism should have been the first order of business at the time of 72. The fourth principle implies that the people in the establishment of the United Nations, and I regretted the countries under colonial domination must not be that it had been delayed. I have :asked permission to subjected to armed action or repressive measures speak on this issue at this stage to explain why we that will prevent them from exercising their right to have actively participated in the drafting of one of the independence freely and without pressure of any kind declarations which we have ultimately co-sponsored from Administering Authorities. It further says that and to state our own understanding of this declaration. the integrity of the national territory shall be re- spected. The stipulations contained in this principle 79. We have listened to all the statements with great are based on the practical experience of the countries care. We have naturally felt associated with all strong in their struggle for-freedom against the colonial arguments in favour of the urgent abolition of the sys" Powers. Hence, it is full of meaning and significance tern of domination and colonialism put forward by those to the peoples still under the colonial yoke. who have preceded us. However, on our part, we are proud to say that we do not have anything to complain 73. The fifth principle is, in our opinion, the most about regarding the colonial Powers, if the coloniaÿ important one and forms the key paragraph in the Powers which attempted to attack us have nothing to whole draft resolution, the implementation of which complain about regarding us. They attacked us andwe alone can make it effective. It has been argued that defended our rights, and that is that. It is a matter this paragraph appears a little irresponsible because which belongs to a history which we do not wish to be it does not take into account the peculiar circumstances repeated. Therefore, I do not intend to repeat the of each territory under colonial or Trust administra- tragic history or the sad Consequences of the policies tion, and its adoption may make it unnecessarily difÿ- of domination, as we think we are here not to deal ficult for the Administering Power to discharge its with the faults of the past but to prevent their con" responsbillties. However, it is proposed by the spon- tinuation and to abolish the possibility of their re" sors merely in the hope and belief that the adoption vival--a history which should in no way be allowed to of this paragraph will give an added incentive to the repeat itself. colonial Powers to draw up and declare suitable time 80. Moreover, I do not intend to go into the matter limits for the granting of independence to the countries of the definition of colonialism or domination of Pe°° under colonial rule as soon as feasible, taking into ples and nations, particularly since I speak before an account both the rising expectations and demands of Assembly the majority of whose Members are eYe° the peoples and the peculiar circumstances prevailing witnesses to different forms of suffering emanating in each dependentterritory, Trust Territory or colony. i 935th,meeting- 5 December 1960 1137

light of from the different forms of domination. Without the 86. Before concluding, I wish to express our appre- ries, agai intention, therefore, of repeating What has already ciation of one of the great constructive changes which 'owers art been said, I shall confine myself to a few general separates our time from that of the past. With the lal unity a observations, as our specific ideas are incorporated world following two main ideological systems, it is in the draft resolution under consideration of which a source of gratification to us that, within each sys- ible With we are a co-sponsor. tem, the Powers most capable of domination are not First, the system that we should like to see ira- colonial Powers. I refer, evidently, to the Soviet Union nd abolished is the domination of any people and the United States. The great responsibilities of isions of thi by an alien people in all its forms and manifestations. these big Powers in the implementation of the declara- tion cannot and should not be ignored. ]ited Natl0ÿi Second, independence from domination should apply )n of Huraal not only to those peoples and territories which are 87. The fact that the initiative for a declaration on terference sually called colonies but to all dependent peoples. the abolition of domination and colonialism to be acted ;spect for th:q Third, the abolition of domination by giving independ- upon by the United Nations was takenby the delegation ir ence should be complete; it can be completed only if it of the Soviet Union is greatly appreciatedby us. I wish a put is meant to stop forever any attempt at the revival of to pay a warm tribute to the Government and people any alien influence on peoples and nations after they of the Soviet Union for their effort in this field. It is :s al have achieved their independence. Fourth, independ- our hope that all other Powers, including the colonial he princt ence should not mean only political independence, but Powers, will follow the same policy for the achieve- : of the should mean economic and cultural independence, free ment and preservation of the right of all nations and from any direct or indirect influence or exercise of peoples to freedom and the right of man to dignity. pressure of any kind on peoples and nations in any form and under anypretence. Fifth, the implementation 88. When the declaration on the abolition of domina- of the provisions of the declaration should be universal tion and colonialism is put to the vote, it will be an nbly. and should apply to all peoples and territories, not historic moment in which the real stand and the real, erious 0nly for the achievement but also for the preserva- sincere intentions of all countries, large and small, of the tion of their full and absolute independence, solely will be put to the test. This will not be a vote that, ff If evidem dependent on the free will and determination of the cast negatively, will leave room for any positive ex- the world peoples themselves, and free from any influeneewhat- planation of vote understandable to mankind. 3ity of soever. 89. It is our strong hope, therefore, that no nation on of pec 82. The draft resolution covers all these principles in this Organization will fail itself in this great his- :ate in the real sense and spirit of its provisions. No toric test, upport ofÿL other interpretation should be considered a part of domination 90. Mr. AIKEN (Ireland): When my delegation read our understanding of this declaration, particularly any-' stand on the statement introducing the proposed "Declaration thing which would in any way cast a shadow of doubt on the granting of independence to colonial countries on these principles and their undeniable acceptance and peoples ÿ [A/4502 and Corr.1], we feared we were )60 before by the peoples of the world. about to witness only another intense propaganda battle. There are two paragraphs in this draft resolution We feared that the greaterpart of the discussion would [alism which were incorporated as a result of the particular bedirected not to the consideration of how best to win at interest which my delegation attaches to their pro- independence for the peoples not now enjoying inde- visions: operative paragraph 2 of the declaration, pendence, but that their rightful aspirations and vital iwhieh reads: interests would be set at nought in an attempt to use plain why them as cannon fodder in the cold war. ,ÿ of one ofÿ' All peoples have the right to self-determination; by virtue of that right they freely determine their 91. We welcome, therefore, the constructive efforts s political status and freely pursue their economic, of those who prepared the draft resolution [A/L.323] social and cultural development, n and of all those who contributed to this debate with nts with: the sole object of securing a fruitful outcome; instead the eighth paragraph of the preamble, which af- of sowing hatred and confusion, they have tried to that: promote friendship, co-operation and freedom. We Wpeoples may, for their own ends, freely dispose welcome, too, the many emphatic statements that .ÿ part, of their natural wealth and resources withoutpreju- the peoples have the inalienable right to enjoy a full Lg to dice to any obligations arising out of international measure of independence for their national territories. f the economic co-operation, based upon the principle of Many peoples stand deprived of that right today. Some ave mutual benefit, and international law, ÿ. of these peoples have never achieved independent state- ked us hood. Some others--and their fate is not less tragic-- It is I mention this only to emphasize the importance had their independence and lost it. not wish among other provisions of the to for the abolition of ÿependence and eolo- 92. Representing a nation that fought for centuries )f the to all of which we have agreed with full con- to uphold the principles of freedom for men and re not to nations--the principles that are now inscribed in our ent their "tions,Charterÿthe has one Irish interest delegation, and one like interest most other only delega- in this • of It is our strong hope that the United Nations will be to adopt the most effective measures at the debate: that is, to secure the passage of a resolution of its consideration of the issue before it. by this Assembly that will best serve the long-term delegation will support any other constructive interests of all nations and give fresh impetus to the to the which would strengthen the stand of the speedy and orderly implementation of pur Charter nation Of ! Nations in favour of the natural and undeniable • principles. In this way, we can help to lay firm foun- )eak of peoples and nations and which would bring dations for a true peace and for a great ÿco-operative erS are: the end of all forms of domination of man by effort to reduce poverty, illiteracy and disease through- [ng out the world. 1138' General Assembly- Fifteenth Session- Plenary Meetings

93. Most of us here, Ibelieve, are concerned to ensure "Inadequacy of political, economic, social or edu. that our resolution shall be as universalinits applica- cational preparedness should never serve as a Preÿ tion as is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. text for delaying independence." It is essential that it should not be selective or directed to certain cases or to certain parts of the world; it is "All armed action or repressive measures of all essential, we submit, that the rights it proclaims for kinds directed against dependent peoples shall cease in order to enable them to exercise peacefully and peoples not now enjoying full national independence should be appIicable to ÿ11 peoples in all parts of the freely their right to complete independence, and world; east or west, north or south; that the right to the integrity of their national territory shall be respected." exercise full national independence should be recog- nfzed as justly belonging to all peoples, whether the "Any attempt aimed at the partial or total dis~ oppressors and the oppressed were of the same race, ruption of the national unity and the territorial creed or colour or of different races, creeds and integrity of a country is incompatible with the PUr- colours; whether the oppressed peoples came under poses and principles of the Charter of the United the domination of an outside Power many Centuries Nations." ago like my own country, or in the last century like many countries in Africa, or in recent years like "All States shall observe faithfully and strictly Tibet. We are concerned also to ensure that if, in the the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the futureI a small country anywhere in the world should come under the domination of an outside Power, our present Declaration on the basis of equality, non- interference in the internal affairs of all States, and resolution should affirm the right of that country to regain its freedom. respect for the sovereign rights of all peoples and their territorial integrity." 94. The draft resolution sponsored by Afghanistan and forty-one other countries, clearly maintains this 104. It will be noted, I am sure, that all the quotations I have given from various paragraphs of the draft essential principle of universality when it reminds resolution are couched in clear and unambiguous lan- us that the Charter of the United Nations reaffirms guage and are of universal application. In these para- our "faith in fundamental human rights" and in the graphs definite and clear-cut principles are asserted "equal rights of men and women and of nations large without limitation of time or geography, or limitation and small". as to race, creed or colour; the rights apply univer- 95. The draft resolution emphasizes the need for sally to all peoples, and the duties apply universally "respect for the principles of equal rights and self- to all peoples. determination of all peoples, and of universal respect 105. In the quotations Ihave given, the draft resolution for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental speaks of the "fundamental" human rights, of the "equal freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, rights of nations", of the rights to self-determination language or religion". of "all peoples", of the freedom of "all" dependent 96. The draft resolution recognizes further "the pas- peoples, Of the end of colonialism in "all its manifes- sionate yearning for freedom in all dependentpeoples" tations", of the right of peoples to dispose of their and the fact that "the peoples of the world ardently national wealth, of the end of "allpractices" of segre- desire the end of colonialism in all its manifestations ". gation, of the inalienable right of "all peoples" to complete freedom, independence and territorialunity, 97. It asserts our conviction that "the continued of an end to colonialism in "all its forms" and mani- existence of colonialism prevents the development of festations, of the principle that independence shall international ... co-operation.., and militates against "never" be delayed by a pretext of unpreparedness, the United Nations ideal of universal peace". I of the duty of "all States" to observe the Charter of 98. It affirms the right of peoples freely to dispose the United Nations and respect the sovereign rights of their national wealth in accordance with theprinci- of "all peoples" and their territorial integrity, of the :, ! ple of mutual benefit and international law. truth that human rights and fundamental freedoms belong to "all peoples", without distinction as to race, 99. It asserts the principle that "all peoples have an Sex, language or religion. inalienable right to complete freedom, the exercise of their sovereignty and the integrity of their national 106. All the assertions of rights to which I have just territory ". referred seem to me to be general and universal in their application. The opening part of operative para- 100. It "solemnly proclaims the necessity of bringing graph 5 seems, howeverÿ to be more restricted in its to a speedy and unconditional end colonialism in all scope. It refers to territories which have not yet its forms and manifestations". attained independence, without referring specifically 101. The draft resolution firmly maintains the prin- to the case of peoples who once enjoyed independence, ciple of universality when it declares that "the sub- but lost it. jection of peoples to alien subjugation, domination and 107. For the sake of clarity and uniformity with other exploitation constitutes a denial of fundamental human parts of the draft resolution, my delegation therefore rights, is contrary to the Charter of the United Nationg would prefer that the opening part of operative para- and is an impediment to the promotion of world peace graph 5 should read: and co-operation". "Immediate steps shall be taken, in Trust and 102. The same principle of universality is explicitly Non-Self-Governing Territories, and in all cases asserted in the declaration, namely: "Allpeoples have where the sovereign rights proclaimed in the present the right to self-determination". Declaration are denied to any people, to transfer 103. This principle also underlies the following all powers to the people concerned without any con- declarations: ditions or reservations..." 935th meeting -- 5 December 1960 1139

8. However, we know the difficulty, in the few days freedom will continue until all the peoples of the world m a Pr.eÿ now at our disposal for this debate, of changing the are free and until, through peaceful and generous co- wording of a draft already agreed uponby the Govern- operation, the resources and skills at the disposal of ments of forty-two Member States after many weeks mankind are fully developed to bring peace, prosperity "es of all of discussion between their representatives. We are and the chance of happiness to all corners of the globe. alt cease accordingly prepared, if the sponsors are not in a fully and position to amend the wording as I have suggested, 115. Mr. KAMIL (Federation of Malaya): The dele- to accept the draft resolution as a whole as meaning gation of the Federation of Malaya considers it a that all peoples in all parts of the world now subject, special and signal honour and pride to be associated or who may become subject in the future, in whole or with more than forty other delegations of Asian and tal dis, in part, to an outside Power are entitled to full na- African countries in co-sponsoring the draft declara- rritorial tional independence for all their territory, and that tion on the granting of independence to colonia! coun- the purÿ immediate steps shall be taken to apply to them, in tries and peoples [A/L.323 and Add.l-5]. e United a speedy and orderly manner, the fundamental rights 116. While in terms of sponsorship this declaration proclaimed for all peoples in this declaration. appears essentially an Asian-African initiative, this in no way implies that the liquidation of colonialism strictly 109. In addressing this Assembly containing so many Nations, in all its forms is exclusively the concern of the Asian- representatives of newly emerged nations and of the African world. The distaste and abhorrence for the s and the powers which once held dominion over them, I wish institution and practice of the subjugation of man by ity, non- to say how profoundly we are impressedbythe widen- man and the domination of nations by nations is uni- i ares, and ing of freedom which has occurred in our time through ,! versally shared by men of conscience everywhere, ,ples and the efforts of former subject peoples and, often, / inasmuch as the yearning for freedom and the de- through the wise and realistic statesmanship of the termination to defend it are commonly felt by all lotations colonial Powers. The United Nations is entitled to be humanity. :he draft proud of the help it has given in the peaceful and Or- Lous lan- derly achievement of independence by many States in 117. I would venture to say that the noble aims enun- se para, the last fifteen years. The result has been spectacular. ciated in this declaration, echoing and reiterating as" they do the lofty principles of the United Nations asserted 110. What Irishman would have believed forty years Charter, will be welcomed as a source of stirring imitation ago that he Would live to hear a British statesman inspiration by all peoples, not only in Asia and Africa ' univer. proclaim, in relation to al! the remaining territories where the vestiges of colonialism still persist in one [versally under United Kingdom administration, the words ut- form or another, but also in other parts of the world tered here a few days ago by the representative of the where millions of people are forcibly denied the full United Kipgdom, Mr. Ormsby-Gore: "In these terri- molution enjoyment of complete freedom and national independ- tories", he said, "there is no argument about the right he "equal ence. Freedom and liberty are universal, and any of the people to independence; there is no argument ruination declaration for the cause of freedom and liberty must, whether the people will be independent or not. Cer- ependent as a matter of course, be taken as universal in its nanffes" tainly they will" [925th meeting, para. 50]. Which of application and scope. of their us would have believed forty years ago that he would ,f segre- have lived to see a hundred nations participating on 118. That the Asian and African countries show a ,ples" to the basis of equality in a world Organization with a particular concern and anxiety for the speedy liquida- ial unity, fundamental law such as the Charter of the United tion of colonialism is easily explained by the events of ld mani= Nations? I gladly pay tribute to the part played in that history. For the past many centuries, the pattern of Lce shal! achievement not only by the gallant men and noble history has been shapedby the subjugation and domina- redness, women of the subject countries who fought for freedom tion of weaker peoples by stronger nations. Invariably larter of through the centuries, but also by forward-looking in this process, the victims had been, by and large, ,m rights statesmen and liberal-minded citizens of the colonial the Asian and African peoples. For centuries, Asia .y, of the Powers. and Africa laboured and stagnated under a foreign reedoms 111. The draft resolution we are discussing empha- yoke of one form or another. Although the force of to race, sizes the fact that, though much has been accomplished nationalism and the yearning for freedom stirred in in the widening of freedom, much remains to be done. the hearts and souls of men, itwas only in this century rove just that tMs force gathered momentum and unleased its rersal in 112. In Ireland, we have notyet reeoveredthe historic full impact. Thus, the last few decades--particularly unity of our national territory. We therefore notewith ve para- since the end of the Second World War--witnessed the :ed in its particular satisfaction the principle declared in opera- emergence into full independence and sovereignty of a not yet tlve paragraph 6 of this draft resolution: great many countries, first in Asia, then in Africa, representing over 500 million people of the world's cifically ,"Any attempt aimed at the partial or total dis- population. The year 1960 alone saw the emergence of endence, ruption of the national unity and the territorial in- tegrity of a country is incompatible with the purposes eighteen independent States, almost all of them from the great continent of Africa. ith other and principles of the Charter of the United Nations." 119. The admission of so many new States to mem- erefore 113. We have every hope that, with the growth of bership of the United Nations during this session of re para- goodwill and better understanding, the unity of our the General Assembly was indeed a stirring reminder country will be recovered with reasonable speed and of the irreversible course of history in the direction oust and" in a peaceful and orderly manner, in keeping with the of freedom and emancipation of peoples long subjected iI cases interests of the Irish nation as a whole, and of the United Kingdom as well. to alien domination. This process is still continuing, present gathering momentum and ever powerful force with the transfer • 114. In many parts of the world, there are still many passage of time. It is the tragedy of the moment that tny con" millions not now enjoying the rights proclaimed inthis there are still instances where the ruling authorities draft resolution. We trust the good wore of extending fail to take full cognizance of this historical force, •1140 General Assembly -- Fifteenth Session -- Plenary Meetings " T

but chose instead to repress the aspirations of their determination and freedom from alien bondage in all' [ subject peoples, its forms, manifestations ann guises. This dedication I 120. My delegation is gratified, on the other hand, to the cause of freedom has become one of the cardinal ! principles that form the cornerstone of my Govern. to note the assurances given by some colonial Powers menus foreign policy. of their undertaking to prepare their colonial peoples and territories for the exercise of full sovereignty 125. It is in this spirit that my delegation has felt without undue delay. It is only in conditions where proud and honoured to join other delegations of Asian the Powers concerned take full cognizance of the and African countries, most of whom--like our COUn. aspirations of their subject peoples for independence try--had had a colonial past, in proposingthe adoption and, accordingly, take the necessary sÿeps to facilitate of the draft declaration on the granting of independence the early fulfilment of these aspirations, that the to colonial countries and peoples. It would be wishful danger of hate and violence can be averted and in- thinking to suggest-that this declaration is intended to dependence achieved in a friendly and harmonious create the process of history. Rather, the aim is to atmosphere. Any obstinacy on the part of the ruling assist and accelerate the course of hiÿtory that is authorities to recognize and give way to the irre- already set in motion by the irrepressible urge of pressible urge of the subject peoples for emancipation subjected peoples for their emancipationfrombondage will inevitably erupt into violence which, ultimately, to freedom and liberty. could have far-reaching consequences detrimental to 126. This declaration, when adopted, as I have no relations among nations and to international peace it loubt it will be, and I hope unanimously by all Members and harmony. of this Assembly, will become another momentous, 121. On the other hand, a sensible and realistic hand- living and inspiring document of the United Nations, ling of this problem on the part of the ruling authori- such as the Charter itself. Its a.ims are noble and ties, as has been proven in many cases, cannot but lofty and are bound to touch the hearts and souls of lead to a cordial and harmonious transfer of power all freedom-loving peoples. Its scope, as my delegation which, instead of abruptly breaking theties between sees it, is universal; that is to say it speaks out for the master and the ruled in an atmosphere of hate and freedom of all peoples still living in colonialbondage, vengeance, would upon a new vista of happy relations all peoples who in one way or another are forcibly and co-operation between them as equal partners in denied the full enjoyment of complete andunrestricted the world community of Sovereign nations. sovereignty and independence. Thus the declaration proclaims in operative paragraph 2: . 122. The Federation of Malaya happily is one of several countries that acceded to full sovereignty in "All peoples have the right to self-determination; a friendly and constitutional process. Today, as an bY virtue of that right they freely determine their independent nation, we enjoy the warmest and most political status and freely pursue their economic, cordial relations with the United Kingdom. Yet, our social and cultural development." struggle for national liberation did not follow an easy 127. In calling for the total elimination of alien rule, path. There were many difficulties in the way and the. declaration is also mindful of the danger to which many Obstacles to overcome. But, throughout this new nations in their tender years are liable to be process, both our leaders and peoples, as well as the exposed. Thus, to guarantee the safety of the newly Administering Authority, displayed such measure of won independence, the declaration stresses in para- wisdom and understanding that our independence was graph 7: achieved earlier than planned and without leaving any traces of hate or resentment. The harmonious transfer ".All "States shall observe faithfully and strictly of power which marked the end of a colonial regime the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the : j marked als0 an auspicious beginning for our task of :! I national development and consolidation and for new present Declaration on the basis of equality, non- relations with the United Kingdom as equal partners interference in the internal affairs of all States, and in the Commonwealth of Nations. respect for the Sovereign rights of all peoples and their territorial integrity." i¸,¸,¸i 123. My delegation, therefore, understands the joy and gratification of those many new nations which 128. My delegation is fully aware, from the experience have regained their independence in a similarly har- of our own country, of the dangers of new forms of monious atmosphere. We realize, however, that not alien domination which come in subtle guises, such all are as fortunate. Many of our sister nations have as economic domination and, most dangerous of all, achieved liberty only at the high sacrifice of human ideological domination. The latter, if unchecked, could lives and material resources to the extent that their lead to the total compromise of the political and eco- : ! task of national development has been rendered ex- nomic independence to alien subjugÿation. Even before tremely difficult by the added task of national re- the attainment of our independence--and through the habilitation and reconstruction. My delegation views, years of our existence as a sovereign nation--our therefore, with the profoundest concern, the instances people have steadfastly fought to keep the nation free in some parts of the World today where unnecessary from being subjugated by this form of alien ideological and senseless war is being waged against subjeetpeo- domination. We are determined to continue to be alert ples who are struggling for their just and legitimate against this new and more sinister form of human right to self-determination. bondage. 124. As a nation which had just attained its independ- 129. The Asian and African sponsored declaration, ence from colonial rule, however bÿnefieent that as my delegation sees it, is realistic in its approach rGgime may be, the Federation of Malaya has dedicated to the problem of colonialism. It seeks notto condemn and continues to dedicate itself to the just cause of the colonial Powers, for condemnation, however jus- peoples and nations everywhere for the right to self- tified in some cases, does not serve the interest of 935th meeting -- 5 December !960 1141

it focuses atten- 133. Mr. TSIANG (China): The United Nations has, !: the coloma!- ' peoples. But, rightly so, in the past fifteen years, frequently debated particular tion on the evils and dangers inherent in the institution colonial questions arising from different parts of the and practice of colonialism. It brings to lightthe ana- chronism of colonialism in the present-day world in world. The General Assembly, the Security Council which the ideals of equality and liberty have become and, of course, the Trusteeship Council have all had an ever powerful driving force in the course of history. colonial questions on their agenda. Hitherto, all such questions considered bY the United Nations have been points out that the continuation of colonial domina- tion is not only opposed to the Charter of the United concrete questions, relating to a particular country r coun.. Nations, but constitutes an impediment to the promo- or region. This is the first time that the United Nations doption tion of world peace and co-operation. is considering colonialism in general. ndence : 130. Thus, it calls for the ending of colonialism in 134. My delegation has delayed our participation in wishful all its forms and manifestations and for immediate this discussion because we are not sure about the nded to steps to be taken in Trust and Non-Self-Governing practical fruitfulness of such a debate. If the purpose is to !i Territories and all other territories which have not of the present debate is to achieve a general agree- that is ment on the principles relating to colonialism, such a rge of ÿ;' yet attained independence to transfer all powers to the peoples concerned. By making this call, the declaration debate does not seem particularly necessary, since )ondage :i does not envisage, in the view of my delegation, that we have had such general agreement already for fif- all powers shall be transferred forthwith. What is teen years. The principles relating to colonialism are have no called for is that immediate steps be taken for the all enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, to embers : necessary preparation for the final transfer of power. the fulfilment of which we are all legally and morally [entous, All too often colonial Powers have delayed independ- committed. If, on the other hand, the present debate ations, ence on the fabricated grounds of unpreparedness, is intended to promote the application of the principles ,ble and while nothing is done towards this preparation, if to the colonial questions that still remain, then, I souls of indeed the territory concerned is as yet unprepared. submit the debate should be particularized and not [egation '/ Thus, alleged inadequacy of political, economic, social generalized. No two colonial problems are alike; each out for:: or educational preparedness has all too often been colonial area or country has its special background Used as a pretext for delaying independence. This is a and its special present-day conditions. What is suitable deplorable attitude on the part of the colonial Powers for one area is not necessarily suitable for the others. and contrary to the obligations under the Charter, It is only through systematic study of each question which provides as a responsibility and duty of the by itself that we can make progress. I hope that the Administering Authority that preparations be made for present debate will be useful in hastening the end of subject peoples to assume responsibility in the shortest colonialism everywhere. I am, however, certain that ination; possible time for independence. it is not, and cannot be, a substitute for the sys- ae their : tematic study of particular concrete colonial questions. nomie, 131. My delegation deems it essentialthat allAdmin- istering Authorities of Trust Territories, Non-Self- 135. Among the countries of Asia and Africa, my Governing Territories and all other colonial territories country is one of the earliest to embrace modern en rule, carry out faithfully their obligations under the Charter nationalism and to fight for emancipation from Euro- ,o which so that the neglect of their responsibilities will not pean colonialism or imperialism. Sun Yat-sen, the le to be , be the lamentable cause of indefinite delays for the father of the Chinese Republic--indeed, the father of Le newly fulfilment of the aspirations of their subject peoples modern Chinese nationalism--began, towards the end n para- for independence. The consequences of neglect should of the nineteenth century, to lead the Chinese people furthermore be studies closely and intrue conscience, in their two-fold task of freeing China from European strictly : for such consequences of neglect have been demon- exploitation and of building up in China a modern ation% strated so glaringly in the crisis of the Congo. State, ready and capable of exercising the full rights and the of national sovereignty and of providing for thewelfare 132, I should like to venture to conclude my inter- of the Chinese people. In the course of this struggle, ty, non- vention with a reminder that the problem withwhich tes, and Sun Yat-sen found that there were many peoples in this Assembly is seized is a serious and grave problem ties and : Asia and Africa living under conditions as bad as which affects the lives, destiny and aspirations of those prevailing in China and, in some cases, even millions of our fellow mankind who are still labouring worse. In his last will and testament, Sun Yat-sen under some form of alien subjugation or other. These ,erience emphasized that the new China--Nationalist Chinaÿ people have no voice here, nor can their voice be heard orms of should always sympathize with and support the op- outside of their own homes. They look to us here to S, such pressed peoples of the world and give them, in their champion their cause, with the keenest hope and anti- s of all, struggle for independence and freedom, such support cipation that this momentous and historic debate will ,d, could :: as the Chinese people are capable of. nd eco= ÿ(ÿ! pave the way for the eventual removal of the injustices 1 before ; and humiliation they have suffered for so long. My 136. My delegation and my Government have always )ugh the delegation sincerely hopes, in the intersts of these been faithful to the teachings of Sun Yat-sen. When ion--our still subjected peoples and in the interest of future I first came here to represent my country, one of the ion free international harmony and co-operation, that this critical problems that the United Nations faced atthat ological debate, in trying to pave the way for the liquidation time was the struggle for national independence by be alert of colonialism, does not leave in its wake traces of the people of Indonesia. In the long debates in the human !ÿ: resentment and bitterness which might inject a sour Security Council on that question, my delegation was note to future international peace and co-operation. second to none in its warm support of Indonesian free- The ending of colonialism should be an auspicious and dom. From that time to the present, my delegation aration, happy landmark in the history of mankind, and to this has been consistent in this respect. end we should all dedicate ourselves. ondemB : 137. It is generally assumed that the problem of Mr. Illueca (Panama), Vice-President, took the colonialism is a problem between certain European Chair. peoples on the one side and certain Asian-African 1142 General, Assembly -- Fifteenth Session -- Plenary Meetings peoples on the other side. Itis also generally assumed 142. In connexion with the Austro-Hungarian EmPire that the problem of colonialism concerns the relations I might be permitted to remind the Assembly of the between the industrialized nations and the under- Peace Conference in Paris in the middle of the nineÿ developed nations of the world. My delegationbelieves teenth century, at the end of the Crimean war. One that these two assumptions are in general correct, but of the nationalist movements of that time was that of we also believe, however, that these assumptions Italy. Led by Cavour and other Italian statesmen and over-simplify the problem of colonialism: There are prophets, the Italian people strove for emancipation exceptions to and variations of these assumptions that from Austro-Hungarian domination of Lombardy. call for some consideration in order to get at the full Venetia as well as for Italian unity. Atthe Paris Conÿ truth. I wish, therefore, to speak briefly onthe varia- ference, France sympathized with Italian nationalimn tions and exceptions to the general rule. and wished to give Cavour a chance to plead for Italian freedom and unity and to speak about Lombardy. 138. It is not true that the problem of colonialism Venetia. The Austro-Hungarian delegation to the Paris only arises when more highly developed nations try Conference protested on the ground that the question to dominate less developed nations. History records of Lombardy-Venetia was one of Austrian domestic many instances where less developed people have tried jurisdiction, that the Austrian title to Lombardy. to exercise domination over a more developed people. Venetia had been sanctified by treaty and tradition, I shall cite an example which has the merit of not and that, therefore, it was anuncalledforinterference arousing any contemporary controversy. The example if the Conference in Paris should touch on problems is that of the Mongol empire of the thirteenth and relating to northern Italy. fourteenth centuries. The Mongols, led by Genghis Khan, were predominantly nomads. Their economywas 143. As is well known, the Austro-Hungarian objec- very primitive, mainly limited to sheep-raising. Their tions were overruled by Count WaleWski, the President political organization was in the main along tribal of the Conference, and Count Cavour had his chance lines. Yet, these people conquered China and held it' to speak on behalf ofItalianfreedom andunity. I recall under subjection for almost a century. They conquered this episode partly because, although it occurred one and held in subjection also largeparts of western Asia hundred years ago, it stillholds certain lessons valid and eastern Europe which were, for the most part, as for us today and partly because that episode is a good was China, far more advanced than Mongolia was in demonstration of the fact that the European nations the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. have exercised colonialism and imperialism over other European peoples. 139. The Mongols, under Genghis Khan, were not seeking markets for their export trade, for in fact they 144. Colonialism changes withtime. It is as varied as had almost nothing to export. They were not seeking human society itself. We would be unrealistic and in- foreign fields for investment, for in fact they had no effective if we limited our attention to any one type of capital to invest in their own country, to say nothing colonialism and overlooked the dangers and threats about foreign countries. They were not seeking raw of other types of colonialism. materials, for in fact they would not have known what 145. In the modern period Of history, that is, in the to do with coal, iron, rubber, oil, coconut or tin. They last four or five centuries, the maintrendof colonial- were seeking power and tribute. Nevertheless, such a ism is that of European expansion to the other con- relatively under-developed people, motivated by a tinents of the world. It is in the main a struggle of crude desire for power and loot, built an empire as the economically andpoliticallybetter organized States big as any that the history of mankind has ever seen. of Europe against the politically and economically less 140. The example of the Mongol Empire demonstrates developed peoples of Asia, Africa and America. tn conclusively that colonialism or imperialism is not the course of these centuries, the whole world has the exclusive property of any particular economic, been, to some degree at least, Europeanized. If there political or social system. Indeed, if we study his- is one feature in modern history that can be said to tory carefully, we find that peoples in all parts of the dominate the whole period, we can say that it is the world, in all stages of development, from the Stone Age Europeanization of the world. The process has been through nomadism, agriculture, commerce to modern a mixture of the evil with the good. I shall not stop mechanical industry and capitalism, have all made to analyse and differentiate or to assign blame and attempts at colonization and empire-building. The responsibility. Some of the evil done by Europe to problem of colonialism is as old and as complex as Asia and Africa was unintended; some was intended. human history itself. Likewise with the good; some of the good done was incidental and unintended; on the other hand, there 141. It is also not true that only European peoples has been some good which was intentional and planned. have practised colonialism and imperialism, or that The whole process of the Europeanization or coloni- they practise colonialism and imperialism only against zation of the world is indeed very humanla great non-European peoples. My example of the Mongol mixture of the good with the evil. Empire is a case of an Asian people practising colo- nialism and imperialism against other Asian peoples 146. When Europe started on its grand movementfor and against Europe as well. In the mediaeval period, expansion beyond Europe, it divided into two currents. there was the Moorish Empire, stretching to Portugal Nations of Western Europe expanded overseas to and Spain and even at one time threateningto colonize America, Asia and Africa. Russia, that is Tsarist I France. In the early modern period, there was the Russia, on the other hand, expanded overland. The Ottoman Empire covering parts of Asia, Africa and Russians crossed the Urai Mountains to conquer and south-eastern Europe. Europe itself has practised colonize Siberia and Central Asia. Furthermore, f colonialism and imperialism against European, as Russia took Crimea, the Caucasus and certain parts well as against non-European, peoples. I need only of Eastern Europe. It has been an accident of geography cite here the case of the Napoleonic Empire. I might that most of the countries of Asia and Africa were also cite the case of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. reached only by the overseas expansion of Western 935th meeting -- 5 December 1960 1143

!'ÿ and were untouched by the overland expansion Soviet Union, had some very important as well as

of Tsarist Russia. As a result of this geographical interesting things to say about colonialism in Tsarist ciretunstance,not all, have mosthad the of colonialismthe peoples of of Western Asia andAfrica, Europe Russia: into their consciousness and have almost no "The Tsarist Government pursued in the border- in their minds for the overland colonialism of lands of Russia an essentially ÿolonialist policy which isia. For this reason, the presentprevailing opinion differed little from what can be observed today in

in manY Asian-African countries in regardto European colonial countries, Uzbeks, Kazakhs, Tadzhiks and colonialism is one-sided, distorted and, to a certain calledother non-Russian'aliens'. They nationalitieswere not considered were scornfully human degree, non-objective. beings and were ruthlessly exploited. National dif- 147. The two currents of European expansion, that ferences, hatred and dissension were fomented be- is, the overseas expansion of Western Europe and the tween these nationalities, and the Tsarist Empire overland expansion of Russia, met with relatively weak was held together only by bayonets and oppression." opposition on the part of the peoples of Asia, Africa [869th meeting, para. 207.] and America. In both currents, the participants were bardy.. :: a great mixture of adventurers, lawless personsÿ pa- 152. With Mr. Khrushchev as our authority, we can Ldition, triots, religious zealots and fortune hunters. In the conclude that Russia, at least up to the Revolution of erenoo case of Russia, the first expansionist leader was blems 1917, had a colonial empire, differing but little from yermak, who led a bdnd of 840 men across the Ural the other colonial empires oftheworld. What he called lVlountains in the year 1579. In about sixty years, a "borderlands... held together only by bayonets and objeÿ. succession of Russian adventurers managed to reach oppression" included Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithua- -sident the Pacific Coast, in the region of Okhotsk. In those nia, Poland, Bessarabia, the Ukraine, the Caucasus, chance :: sixty years, the entire extent of Siberiabecame a part Central Asia, Eastern Siberia and parts of Manchuria. recall of the Tsarist Empire, with a total area of 4 million They covered 15 million square kilometres of land, ed one square miles, more than twice the size of European or about 70 per cent of the total area of the Russian s valid Russia. Empire. That is the heritage left by Tsarist Russia a good : : 148. In this long march to the Pacific across Siberia, to Soviet Russia. The all-important question is: What lations : :: has the Soviet Union done with this Tsarist heritage? r other :::;: the first organized opposition the Russians met came from the Kuchum Khanate, on the upper part of the 153. At the time of the Revolution in1917, all former 0b River. The Khanate was one of the remnant parts colonial areas of Russia rose in revolt and declared ried as parts of the great Mongol Empire. In 1583, Yermak md in.. Captured Sibir, whence the name of Siberia, the capital their independence. Some succeeded, some failed. Finland, under Marshal Mannerheim, won its war of ¢pe of of the Khanate. When the Russians reached the Far independence which ended with the signing of the treaty hreats East, they met the opposition of China. Here, in the of 14 October 1920; the same happened in Poland, region watered by the upper tributaries of the Amur which, under Marshal Pilsudski, had its independence River, China and Russia fought a series of skirmishes. in the confirmed by a treaty signed on 18 March 1921; and Lonial- Militarily it was a draw. The military stalemate re- sulted in the Treaty of Nerehinsk, signed on27 August also in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, which signed r con- treaties on 22 February, 11 August and 12 July 1920, 1689. According to that Treaty, the valley of the Amur gle of ::i: respectively. But it was not the same for the other River and its tributaries was acknowledged to be part i States colonial areas. The independence of the Ukraine was of China. lyless i suppressed in August 1920, that of Georgia in Feb- :ca. In 149. In the nineteenth century, the Russians renewed ruary 1921, and that of Central Asia through a long ld has their aggression along the Amur River. By a com- campaign that lasted from 1922 to 1924. In recent i there ::: bination of military action and diplomacy, Tsarist years, the Soviet Union has retaken Estonia, Latvia mid t0 ::ÿ:: : Russia took from China the northern bankofthe Amur and Lithuania and has, in addition, brought other Euro- is the ÿ::; River and the eastern bank of the Ussuri River. These pean countries under its domination. Today, the Soviet s been ÿ::: two areas today constitute the Amur Province and the Empire is bigger than that of the Tsars. We know from )t stop Maritime Province of the Russian Far East. The city the example of Hungary how the Soviet Union would Le and of Vladivostok was, up to 1860, a Chinese settlement deal with any of its subject peoples if they should fight pe to called "Hai-shen-wei"; the Russians changed it to for freedom. nded. nVladivostok", which means nDominator of the East". Le was i: ii !ÿ These regions of the Amur and Ussuri, which Tsarist 154. The Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the there :i: Russia took from China in 1860, and which Soviet Soviet Union painted abright picture of the development nned. ::i( Russia retains, have a total area of 400,000 square of the Central Asian Rÿpublics in the Soviet Union on miles. the one side, and a°dark picture of the colonies of Western European nations on the other. Certain dele- 150. I shall not relate here the history of Russian gations in this Assembly hall can examine his account expansion in Central Asia. The so-called Republics of conditions in the Western colonies with greater mt for of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kirghizia, Turkmenistan authority than I. I wish, for the moment, to call the rents. and Tadzhikistan of today had been independent coun- ttention of the Assemblyto conditions in Central Asia. as to tries before they were annexed by Tsarist Russia. Mr. Khrushchev admitted the following: sarist I shall also not relate the story of Russian expansion i. The in Europe itself. Others in this hall know that story "Conditions in remote areas of the Tsarist empire r and even better than I do. hardly differed from those of colonies because their more, populations were cruelly exploited by the autocracy, 151. In his long speech before the General Assembly by capitalism,n [Ibid., para. 192.] an 23 September 1960 which, among other things, Opened the present debate on colonialism, Mr. Khrush- He went on to say that the picturehas greatly changed chev, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the since the October 1917 Revolution: r 1144 General Assembly -- Fifteenth Session -- Plenary Meetings f "Today Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kirghizia, Turk- who was, by the Way, strongly anti-Moslem, schools 16 menistan, Tadzhikistan--all the sister republics of in the Bukhara Emirate were spread all over the coun, wl Central Asia--have beentransformedfrombackward try, both in towns and in villages. In towns, almost se colonies of Tsarist Russia into advanced, industrially every street had its primary school and, according pl developed socialist republics." [Ibid., para. 193.] to an approximate evaluation, about one-quarter of the population of the Emirate was literate. Duringthe first 155. It is true indeed thattherehasbeenco.nsiderable tÿ half of the nineteenth century, such a high percentage industrial development in Soviet Central Asia, but of literacy was high even for Western countries. there has likewise been considerable industrial devel- t opment in many of the Western colonies. The fact 159. Leaving aside the cultural conditions of Central remains that in the huge Soviet Empire industrializa- Asia in the pre-Russian period, we know for certain tion has been very uneven. Take the example of the that the cultural development in the Soviet Union is textile industry. AceordingtoMr. Baransky, amember also uneven. Take, for example, Uzbekistan. The popu- of the Academy of Sciences of the Soviet Union, in his lation of Uzbekistan is 14.5 times less than that of i book on the economic geography of the Soviet Union, Russia proper, but the number of students is 18 times i 80 per cent of the textile industry of the USSR is less, the number of books and journals published per concentrated in the three purely Russian regions of year is 44 times less and the number of issues of Moscow, Yaroslav and Ivanovo, and only 20 per cent newspapers published per'year is 40 times less. in the cotton-producing areas which are in Central 160. Let us take Kazakhstan. The population of Asia. Kazakhstan is 12 times less than that of Russia proper, 156. The natural resources of the Soviet Union are but the number of students is 24.5 times less, books unevenly distributed. The non-Russian Republics of and journals published per year 66 times less and Turkestan, Caueasia and the Ukraine and some his- newspapers issued 35 times less. torically non-Russian areas of Siberia are the richest 161. Or let us takethe Ukraine. According toofficial in the Soviet Empire. Almost 100 per cent of the oil Soviet statistics, the population of the Ukrainian Repub- resources are concentrated in the Moslem republics. lic is 2.8 times less than that ofthe Russian Republic, Basic iron and coal deposits, manganese, non-ferrous but the number of students in higher schools is" metals, sugarbeet, cotton, grain and cattle breeding 3.6 times less, the number of books and journals pub- are also mostly concentrated in non-Russian areas, ilÿ ,: while the ethnic Russian areas are generally poor lished per year is 10 times less andthe number of is- sues of newspapers published peryearis 7 times less. in natural resources. In spite of this fact, industrial There was a time when the culture of the Ukraine was development has been much more concentrated in ahead of that of Russia. One cannot possibly argue Russia proper and is much less significant in the that the present state of Ukrainian culture is due to non-Russian territories. According to official Soviet its old backwardness. statistical sources, Russia proper produces 75 per cent of all Soviet engineering and metal-working 162. Mr. Khrushchev painted for us a glorious picture products, 92 per cent of all automobiles, 87 per cent of the national freedom in the Soviet Union, when he of all finished cotton goods and 82 per cent of wool said: products. "Under the Constitution, each of our fifteen Union 157. In addition to the favoured position of Russia Republics has the right to remain in the Union or to proper in the huge Soviet Empire, the Russians have leave it, if it so desires. The existence of nineteen migrated in large numbers into many of these so-called autonomous republics, nine autonomous regions and sister republics. According to the Great Soviet Ency- ten national territories makes it possible to preserve clopaedia, the population of Kazakhstan, which is the the national characteristics and cultural originality largest of the non-Russian republics, was, in 1933, and individuality of each people and nationality." 57 per cent native Kazakh and 19.7 per cent Russian, [Ibid., para. 209.] with a certain percentage of other minor groups. Ac- cording to the Soviet census of 1959, the population 163. It is true that article 17 Of the Soviet Constitu- of Kazakhistan has become only 30 per cent Kazakh, tion does declare that every Soviet Republic has the 42.7 per cent Russian, 9.2 per cent Ukrainian, with right to secede fromthe Soviet Union. But Mr. Khrush- the remainder consisting of minor ethnic groups. chev forgot to mention to us two other articles of the same Constitution, namely, articles 21 and 133. 158. Mr. Khrushchev had also much to say on the Article 21 stipulates: "Uniform Union citizenship is subject of the cultural development of the non-Russian established for citizens of the USSR." Article 133 republics in the Soviet Union. He said: reads: "To defend the country is the sacred duty of "It is known, for example thatbeforethe revolution every citizen of the USSR. Treasonto the Motherland-- the peoples of Kazakhstan and the Central Asian violation of the oath of allegiance, desertion to the republics were almost entirely illiterate. There enemy, impairing the military power of the State, es- were almost no people with secondary and higher pionage-is punishable with all the severity of the law education. The Soviet Power has made education as the most heinous of crimes". In fact, any attempt and culture widely accessible to all peoples." [Ibid., to obtain any advantage from article 17 of the Consti- para. 199.] tution automatically becomes a serious crime, accord- ing to articles 21 and 133. Unfortunately, we do not know much about the cultural conditions in Central Asia in the earlier periods--at 164. It should, be remembered that, while the polittcal least, I do not. Nevertheless, I have thefeeling that structure of the Soviet Union is nominally a federation, Mr. Khrushchev's characterization of these peoples actual political power is centralized in the Russian as being almost entirely illiterate is a gross carica- Communist Party. The Communist Parties of the ture. According to the Russian geographer, Khanykov, constituent republics are treated as local committees who explored the Bukhara region in about 1840,and of the Russian Communist Party. 935th meeting -- 5 December 1960 1145

Schools The question may be asked: Why do the Soviets, ments and against' any form of federation of free he coun.. while refusing their own captive peoples the right to nations. That is the crux of the matter: Let us not :, almost : i secede and establish themselves as independent States, misunderstand the Soviet initiative in this session of Ccordiag .ro]3agate the slogan of liberation of colonial peoples the General Assembly. er of the r- ÿia and Africa? Lenin answered this question In 168. Lenin declared long ago: : the first the following woras: " rcentage "We, as Communists, must and will support the "Marxism cannot be reconciled with nationalism es. bourgeois emancipation movements in colonial coun- even if the latter is just, irreproachable and civilized. Marxism is moving forward ahead of every national- Central tries when those movements have a real revolutionary ism as an international idea of the amalgamation of : certain character and when the representatives of those Union is ÿ movements will not hinder us in educating and or- all nations into a higher whole. National culture is in general the culture of estate-owners, clergy and he popu- ganizing the peasants and the exploited masses in bourgeoisie." a that of the revolutionary spirit." 18 times This quotation is found in Lenin's Works, Volume XX, shed peÿ I have taken this quotation from Lenin's Works, 4th Edition, Volume XXXI, page 217. page 8. ssues of " ss. • 166. Later, Stalin also gave an answer to this ques- 169. We are against colonialism of any type, shape 'tion: or origin. A colony is a colony, whether it is the ation of product of overseas expansion or the product of over- proper, "The slogan of self-determination of nations atthe land expansion. We have nothing good to say about s, books present moment, when the flame of emancipation is colonialism. We wish it to be terminated as early as :ess and ":: spreading in the colonies, is a revolutionary pass- possible and, for this reason, my delegation will sup- word for us. While the Soviet States are uniting into port the forty-tWo Power draft resolution [A/L.323 a federation of their own will, the nations forming official and Add.l-5]. Wherever people inAsia, Africa, Europe the Russian Socialist Federation will not voluntarily a Repub- or America struggle against colonialism, China will. use the right of secession. However, if we deal with :epublic, lend them its support. colonies still under the claws of Britain, France, ools is America, Japan, ff we deal with such countries as 170. The world faces a gigantic contradiction in its als lmb- Arabia, Mesopotamia, Turkey, India, which are developments. On the one hand, we have the develop- r colonies or half-colonies of the Entente, then the ment of the colonies of Western European countries Les less: into independent nations, many of which are repre- ine right of nations to separate becomes a revolutionary slogan and to give it up means to help the impe- sented here today. On the other hand, we have the [y argue ÿ rialists." Soviet Empire ever expanding. I think I am not wrong Is due to: or immoderate when I say that the nations oi Western I take this quotation from the Works of Stalin, Vol- Europe are trying to live up to, eventhmigh somewhat picturÿ ume V, page 43. slowly, too slowly, the principles of the Charter and when he ' In plain language, Stalin's idea was this: the the basic aspirations of mankind. The Soviet Empire Soviet Union supports the liberating movements in is today pushing and forging ahead against the ideals of the United Nations Charter and the basic yearnings n Union Western colonies because such support will help the for freedom of people everywhere. This is the problem [on or to ::!:: Soviet Union to spread its power and its interests of colonialism which the United Nations faces today. nineteen the world over. Within the borders of the Soviet Union, ions and :: the Soviets are naturally against any liberatingmove- The meeting rose at 6 p.m. }reserve iginality

; has the Khrushÿ j: ticles Of

in U.N., 77001--September 1961--2,225