The Special Political and Decolonization Committee (SPECPOL) is the Fourth Committee of the United Nations General Assembly. It was formed in 1990 when the Decolonization Committee and the Special Political Committee were combined. The UN established the “International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism” from 1990 to 2000, marking an important time for the UN’s decolonization work. When the UN was founded, 750 million people lived under colonial rule. Since 1945, over 80 former colonies have gained independence, thanks in part to the work of the Fourth Committee. Today, fewer than two million people live in 17 non-self-governing territories, and SPECPOL holds hearings with petitioners, including civil society organizations and private individuals, from these areas. SPECPOL also covers issues related to Palestinian refugees as well as topics like the effects of atomic radiation, peacekeeping operations, space exploration, and international cooperation for peaceful uses of outer space.

Topic information to be posted soon.

Topic information to be posted soon.