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Law-ref.org | Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples |
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Preamble
The General Assembly,
Mindful of the determination proclaimed by the peoples of
the world in the Charter of the United Nations to reaffirm faith
in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the
human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations
large and small and to promote social progress and better standards
of life in larger freedom,
Conscious of the need for the creation of conditions of stability
and well-being and peaceful and friendly relations based on respect
for the principles of equal rights and self-determination of
all peoples, and of universal respect for, and observance of,
human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction
as to race, sex, language or religion,
Recognizing the passionate yearning for freedom in all dependent
peoples and the decisive role of such peoples in the attainment
of their independence,
A ware of the increasing conflicts resulting from the denial
of or impediments in the way of the freedom of such peoples,
which constitute a serious threat to world peace,
Considering the important role of the United Nations in assisting
the movement for independence in Trust and Non- Self- Governing
Territories,
Recognizing that the peoples of the world ardently desire
the end of colonialism in all its manifestations,
Convinced that the continued existence of colonialism prevents
the development of international economic co-operation, impedes
the social, cultural and economic development of dependent peoples
and militates against the United Nations ideal of universal peace,
Affirming that peoples may, for their own ends, freely dispose
of their natural wealth and resources without prejudice to any
obligations arising out of international economic co-operation,
based upon the principle of mutual benefit, and international
law,
Believing that the process of liberation is irresistible and
irreversible and that, in order to avoid serious crises, an end
must be put to colonialism and all practices of segregation and
discrimination associated therewith,
Welcoming the emergence in recent years of a large number
of dependent territories into freedom and independence, and recognizing
the increasingly powerful trends towards freedom in such territories
which have not yet attained independence,
Convinced that all peoples have an inalienable right to complete
freedom, the exercise of their sovereignty and the integrity
of their national territory,
Solemnly proclaims the necessity of bringing to a speedy and
unconditional end colonialism in all its forms and manifestations;
And to this end Declares that: