During the COP29 Summit, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev brought attention to alleged human rights violations and environmental destruction in France’s overseas territories. In his speech at the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Summit, he noted that despite being recognized as self-governing by the UN, areas such as New Caledonia and French Polynesia still experience colonial-era issues.

President Aliyev specifically highlighted severe environmental degradation in French Polynesia due to France’s history of nuclear testing in the region. He accused France of extensive land contamination and ecological damage. Citing Algeria, where 17 nuclear tests were conducted during French colonial rule, he stressed the significant harm these actions have inflicted on the planet’s ecosystems.

Addressing France’s recent actions in New Caledonia, President Aliyev condemned the French government for reported human rights abuses. He alleged that during recent demonstrations, the Macron administration was responsible for the deaths and injuries of several New Caledonian citizens, criticizing the suppression of civil rights.

The Azerbaijani leader’s comments were part of a broader discussion on the importance of environmental responsibility and protecting the sovereignty of territories designated as self-governing by international standards. He highlighted the need for accountability in managing environmental and human rights issues in overseas territories.

Aliyev emphasized that such actions should not be overlooked by the international community and called for stronger oversight and enforcement of human rights standards in all regions, especially those affected by historic and ongoing colonial practices.