International Day Against Colonialism in All Its Forms and Manifestations 2025

The United Nations has taken a historic step in strengthening the global commitment to decolonization. With the adoption of Resolution A/RES/80/106, the UN has officially declared 14 December as the International Day Against Colonialism in All Its Forms and Manifestations. First observed in 2025, this day highlights the urgent need to end colonialism in every form and reaffirm the core values of the UN Charter.

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Why Is the International Day Against Colonialism Important?

Colonialism, despite global progress, has not been fully eradicated. Many regions continue to face political, economic, and cultural challenges rooted in colonial legacies. The International Day aims to:

• Reinforce the principles of sovereignty and self-determination
• Support the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples
• Promote global dialogue on ending modern forms of colonialism

This observance reaffirms the UN’s long-standing position that colonialism violates human rights and hinders development.

Key UN Resolution Behind the Observance

The foundation of this day lies in UN General Assembly Resolution 1514 (XV), adopted in 1960. Known as the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, it asserts that:

• All peoples have the right to self-determination
• Colonial domination must be brought to a speedy and unconditional end
• Political, economic, social, and cultural development cannot thrive under colonial rule

Resolution A/RES/80/106 builds upon this declaration by institutionalizing a dedicated day to renew international commitment.

Inaugural Observance and High-Level UN Meeting

As part of the first-ever observance, the United Nations is hosting a high-level plenary meeting of the General Assembly on 18 December 2025. This meeting commemorates the 65th anniversary of Resolution 1514 (XV).

Key Participants

• UN Member States and Observers
• President of the General Assembly
• President of the Economic and Social Council
• UN Secretary-General

The meeting aims to advance global dialogue on implementing UN resolutions related to decolonization and addressing unresolved colonial situations.

Colonialism Today: Why the Issue Still Matters

More than six decades after the adoption of Resolution 1514 (XV), colonialism still exists in various forms, including:

• Political control over non-self-governing territories
• Economic dependence and resource exploitation
• Cultural suppression and loss of indigenous identity

These forms undermine the core principles of equality, freedom, and human dignity enshrined in the UN Charter.

UN’s Ongoing Commitment to Decolonization

The eradication of colonialism remains a top priority for the United Nations, especially under the Fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism (2021–2030).

Objectives of the Fourth International Decade

• Support self-governance and independence movements
• Strengthen international cooperation
• Raise awareness about unfinished decolonization processes
• Ensure sustainable development in affected territories

This decade reflects the UN’s belief that true global peace is impossible without complete decolonization.

How Individuals and Organizations Can Get Involved

The fight against colonialism is not limited to governments. Everyone has a role to play.

Ways to Participate

• Join UN observances and educational events
• Support grassroots and community-led movements
• Engage with UN publications and discussions on decolonization
• Learn more through official UN Decolonization resources

Active participation helps spread awareness and reinforces global solidarity.