Duty of UN, global community to bring decolonization to successful end - Annan

Despite proud, historic accomplishments in decolonization, the United Nations' job is incomplete, with 16 non-self-governing territories remaining on its list, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said today.

"It is up to the United Nations and the international community to bring the decolonization process to a successful conclusion," Mr. Annan said in a message to the opening of the Pacific regional seminar on decolonization. It was delivered on his behalf to the gathering in Papua New Guinea by Anna Theofilopoulou, the Acting Chief of the UN's Decolonization Unit.

"I hope this year's seminar will…help all concerned to prepare for the future by devising strategies to support the political, economic and social advancement of the Non-Self Government Territories in their quest for self-determination," he said.

The annual seminar, which will run through Thursday, was organized by the UN General Assembly's Special Committee on Decolonization.

Following a focus last year on the Caribbean, the Committee's 2004 gathering, which coincides with the Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories, will focus on practical steps to advance the decolonization process in Pacific-based territories.

The seminar is being conducted within the framework of the Second International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism (2001 to 2010) and delegations are expected to discuss the Special Committee's role in facilitating decolonization of the Non-Self-Governing Territories and the views of the representatives of Non-Self-Governing Territories, both in the Pacific region and the Caribbean, on their present status and prospects for decolonization.

The case of Tokelau, which is making progress towards decolonization, also will be presented and discussed.