Dimapur, August 24 (MExN): The struggle of the Naga people rooted in resilience, determination and pursuit of justice resonates with the broader global struggle and the collective effort of indigenous and unrepresented people around the world, Merce Monje Cano, Secretary General and Executive Director of the Unrepresented Nations People’s Organization (UNPO) has maintained.
It is a struggle for the recognition, respect, and dignity, Cano added, addressing the 77th of Naga Independence Day commemoration organised by the Global Naga Forum (GNF) on August 14.
Since the UNPO was established, the organisation, representing over 45 Nations and people worldwide, has always stood on united with the Unrepresented Nations across the globe including the Naga community, the Secretary General added, as per the transcript of her speech shared by the GNF.
“We are all united in their pursuit of promoting the right of self-determination,” she added.
The UNPO Secretary General further noted that the international community, suddenly, have grown increasingly hostile to claims to and demands for self determination and the world had seen the erosion of human rights on several fronts.
However, she noted that this current geo-political landscape has increased the “significance and importance of our work.”
Cano also noted that the year 2023 holds a special significance for the UNPO as it commemorates the 30th Anniversary of Nagas membership in the UNPO.
“The Naga peoples’ unwavering dedication to self determination remains a source of inspiration for us,” she added, re-affirming the UNPO’s solidarity.
The UNPO reiterated its support for peaceful resolution of the Indo-Naga issue which must be just, long lasting, honorable, and acceptable to both the sides.
To this end, it also called upon the international community to appeal to India to fulfill its commitment in the Framework Agreement on the Indo-Naga issue.
The UNPO also urged the Indian Government to repeal acts such as the Armed Force Special Power Act.
“Indeed, it is in the core belief of the UNPO, that peace can never be truly attained unless the Right to Self Determination is first respected,” the Secretary General asserted.
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