When India gained independence in 1947, the nation became a sovereign state that is ruled by its own people. However, many territories in other parts of world are still under the rule of colonial countries. Therefore, the International Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories observed between May 25 and 31, has great relevance. Colonialism was tragic event, which saw many countries and territories being invaded or systematically subjugated and plundered of their wealth. In 1946, the UN had prepared a list of territories that were not self-governing. Most of these territories freed themselves through the process of decolonization. However, some of them had remained dependent. The UN is urging the administering countries to take effective measures to safeguard and guarantee the inalienable rights of the peoples of the Non-Self- Governing Territories to their natural resources, including land. It is important that these territories be given the power to maintain control over the future development of those resources. The UN is also making requests to take all necessary steps to protect the property rights of the peoples of those territories.
The Week of Solidarity is aimed at enabling the people of these territories to stand up for their own rights and fight against all oppressing powers.
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