Guterres noted that the UN was conceived as a platform for equal interaction among states, not for creating a hierarchy of "lords and subordinates."
Since 1945, more than a hundred countries have gained independence, and more people today are exercising their right to self-determination. However, the negative consequences of colonialism continue to be felt, manifesting in economic inequality, racism, and the limited ability of some peoples to participate in international decisions.
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Currently, there are 17 non-self-governing territories in the world. The UN asserts that the future of these territories should be determined through an inclusive dialogue involving representatives of the territories themselves, administering states, and UN member states. This approach should take into account the unique needs of each territory, following the UN Charter and the decisions of the General Assembly.
In his speech, Guterres emphasized the important role of youth, who, in his opinion, can become a driving force in creating a more just and inclusive future.
Climate change was also mentioned as one of the main challenges. Most non-self-governing territories are small island states, which are particularly vulnerable to risks such as rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and extreme weather conditions. The UN has called for a focus on issues of sustainability and adaptation to climate change in international discussions.
In December 2025, the UN will celebrate the International Day for the Elimination of Colonialism in all its forms for the first time, which will serve as a reminder that despite the progress made, the process of decolonization is still far from complete.
