Vanuatu raises West Papua and Kanaky issues at United Nations 🏛️

Vanuatu raised concerns over human rights in West Papua at the United Nations on September 28. Permanent Representative Odo Tevi stated that Vanuatu remains concerned about reported human rights violations affecting indigenous Papuans. Tevi noted that calls by Pacific Forum leaders for the UN Human Rights Commissioner to visit West Papua remain unheeded. On Kanaky New Caledonia, Tevi reaffirmed Vanuatu's support for decolonisation and the self-determination of the indigenous Kanak people. He highlighted concerns regarding socio-economic disparities affecting Kanak people in employment, education, income, and economic opportunities. Tevi also addressed Vanuatu's proceedings against France before the International Court of Justice concerning sovereignty over Umaenupne and Umaeneg, known as Matthew and Hunter islands. He described the islands as an integral part of Vanuatu's territory, grounded in customary governance and indigenous ownership.

Read the original report: vbtc.vu →

Published

29 Sep 2026

Languages

English