By Dare Akogun
The Baku Initiative Group (BIG), an international NGO advocating for decolonization and the rights of indigenous Peoples and territories worldwide, has firmly rejected accusations by French officials that it interfered in France’s internal affairs.
These allegations arose following BIG’s active participation in the International Front of Decolonization Congress, held in Kanaky (New Caledonia) from January 23 to 24, 2025.
In a statement issued by Abbas Abbasov, the Executive Director of BIG, the organization denounced France’s claims as groundless and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting decolonization and fundamental human rights.
Abbasov highlighted that raising the Azerbaijani flag during the congress in Kanaky was a gesture of gratitude from the Kanak people toward Azerbaijan and its leadership for their support.
“Fundamental human rights and freedoms cannot be considered an internal matter of any country,” Abbasov stated, emphasizing that colonialism has no place in the 21st century.
He called for the urgent recognition of the rights of Indigenous Peoples to their territories, describing decolonization as a restoration of historical justice.
The French government has maintained that the decolonization of its territories is a domestic issue. However, Abbasov maintained that freedoms are universal values that transcend national boundaries, urging France, which prides itself as a cradle of democracy, to uphold these principles.
Abbasov also extended an invitation to the French government to engage in dialogue and collaboration with BIG. Furthermore, he called on international organizations and the global community to support the group’s mission to end colonial rule worldwide.
BIG reaffirmed its dedication to the decolonization agenda as its primary goal and pledged to continue its activities in alignment with its mandate.
