Chief Minister Fabian Picardo Makes Final Address to UN Fourth Committee

A Final Appearance at the United Nations

Chief Minister Fabian Picardo has concluded his tenure of addressing the United Nations Fourth Committee, marking his final appearance before the body in his current capacity. During the session in New York, Picardo maintained the long-standing position of the Government of Gibraltar regarding the territory's political status.

Call for Decolonization

In his address, Picardo urged the United Nations to remove Gibraltar from the list of non-self-governing territories. He argued that the current classification is outdated and does not reflect the modern reality of the territory. Key points from his address included:

• The assertion that the people of Gibraltar have exercised their right to self-determination.
• A call for the UN to recognize the democratic wishes of the Gibraltarian people.
• The rejection of sovereignty claims that contradict the principle of self-determination.

Emphasis on Self-Determination

Picardo emphasized that the relationship between Gibraltar and the United Kingdom is one of modern partnership rather than colonial subjugation. He stated, 'The people of Gibraltar have made their choices clear through the ballot box, and those choices must be respected by the international community.' His speech focused on the importance of upholding the UN Charter, specifically regarding the rights of peoples to determine their own political status.

Looking Ahead

As Picardo steps back from this specific international forum, his final address serves as a capstone to years of advocacy on the global stage. The Government of Gibraltar continues to seek a resolution that aligns with international law, maintaining that the decolonization process is complete based on the expressed will of its citizens.