Special Committee on Decolonization

Definition

The Special Committee on Decolonization, also known as the Committee of 24, is a United Nations body established to oversee and promote the decolonization process in territories that remain under colonial rule. It aims to facilitate the self-determination of peoples in non-self-governing territories, advocating for their political, economic, and social development while addressing the challenges posed by colonialism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Special Committee on Decolonization was established in 1960 after the adoption of Resolution 1514 (XV), which outlined the importance of granting independence to colonial countries and peoples.
2. The committee monitors the political situation in non-self-governing territories and provides recommendations for their advancement towards self-governance.
3. It organizes field visits to various territories to assess their needs and challenges related to decolonization and reports its findings to the General Assembly.
4. The committee promotes awareness about the ongoing issues of colonialism and advocates for international support for the self-determination of oppressed populations.
5. It has played a significant role in addressing disputes over sovereignty and territorial integrity related to decolonization processes worldwide.

Review Questions

• How does the Special Committee on Decolonization facilitate the self-determination of non-self-governing territories?
  • The Special Committee on Decolonization facilitates self-determination by monitoring the situations of non-self-governing territories and providing them with a platform to express their aspirations. It conducts field visits, engages with local populations, and gathers information on their political, economic, and social conditions. By advocating for international attention and support, the committee helps these territories navigate their paths towards independence.
• Discuss the significance of Resolution 1514 (XV) in the context of the Special Committee on Decolonization's establishment and objectives.
  • Resolution 1514 (XV) is pivotal because it formally recognized the right to self-determination for colonized peoples and provided a framework for the Special Committee on Decolonization's work. This resolution emphasized the urgency of decolonization and outlined principles that guide the committee’s efforts in promoting independence for non-self-governing territories. It laid the foundation for international legal standards regarding decolonization.
• Evaluate how the activities of the Special Committee on Decolonization influence contemporary global politics concerning former colonies.
  • The activities of the Special Committee on Decolonization significantly shape contemporary global politics by keeping decolonization issues alive in international discourse. As it addresses current challenges faced by former colonies, such as economic dependency or political instability, it encourages global awareness and solidarity. The committee’s influence extends to promoting reforms and policies aimed at empowering these regions, thereby affecting geopolitical relations and fostering new alliances based on shared histories of colonialism.

Related terms

Decolonization: The process through which colonies gain independence from colonial powers, often involving political, social, and economic transformations.

Non-Self-Governing Territories: Regions that are not fully autonomous or self-governing and are still subject to colonial administration.

Self-Determination: The principle that peoples have the right to freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development.