The Baku Initiative Group (BIG) organized a protest titled “End Colonialism for Peace and a Green World!” on the sidelines of the ongoing COP29 climate conference in Baku, calling for an end to French colonial rule in island nations and territories worldwide.
Activists from various island nations, including the Guianas, one of South America’s last remaining colonial territories, participated in the demonstration.
They voiced their opposition to France’s continued colonial control and demanded immediate action to end colonial practices in these regions.
During the protest, demonstrators called for the inclusion of French-controlled territories on the UN’s decolonization list, stressing the need for climate justice in areas impacted by colonial legacies.
Peaceful slogans, such as “End colonialism for peace and a green world,” “Justice delayed justice denied,” “Let’s free education and ideas from colonialism!” and “Say no to colonialism!” were displayed to convey their message.
The Baku Initiative Group has been vocal in its advocacy against French colonialism and neo-colonial practices worldwide, with a focus on fostering peace and environmental justice for regions still under colonial influence.
Activists emphasized that achieving climate resilience requires addressing the socio-political and environmental impacts of colonialism in these vulnerable territories.
By Dare Akogun
