Chief Minister Advocates for Self-Determination at United Nations
Gibraltar's Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, has consistently utilized the platform of the United Nations to champion the Rock's inherent right to self-determination and to press for its removal from the UN's list of Non-Self-Governing Territories. His recent addresses to the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) in October 2024 and the Special Committee on Decolonization (Committee of 24) in June 2025 underscored these long-standing positions, while also addressing contemporary developments such as the ongoing UK/EU treaty negotiations.
Address to the Fourth Committee in October 2024
In his annual address to the UN Special Political and Decolonization Committee in New York on October 7, 2024, Chief Minister Fabian Picardo firmly reiterated Gibraltar's position on its sovereignty and future. He reminded the Committee that Spain ceded sovereignty over Gibraltar 'in perpetuity' in 1713 through the Treaty of Utrecht. Picardo asserted that there is 'no legal value' in any principle of international law found in the General Assembly resolutions that Spain relies on to pursue its claim over Gibraltar. He emphasized that the only legitimate path to Gibraltar's delisting is one that reflects the 'freely and democratically expressed wishes of the Gibraltarians'. He also touched upon the ongoing negotiations with the European Union, alongside the United Kingdom, to agree on a new relationship, aiming for 'fair, balanced and pragmatic solutions that are sovereignty-neutral'.
Persistent Call for Delisting and Recognition of Self-Governance
A central theme across Picardo's addresses has been the demand for the United Nations to recognize Gibraltar's self-governing reality and to delist it from the roster of Non-Self-Governing Territories, a status it has held since 1946. In his June 2025 address to the Committee of 24, Picardo urged the committee to 'break its silence' and take concrete steps towards delisting, or to propose 'constructive' alternatives. He stressed that decolonization 'is not about cartography' but 'about consent', asserting that the right to self-determination is 'non-negotiable' and 'unconditional'. Gibraltar's representatives have appeared before these committees for decades, advocating for their right to determine their own future.
Treaty Negotiations and Regional Cooperation Highlighted in June 2025
During his address to the UN Special Committee on Decolonization on June 17, 2025, Chief Minister Picardo provided an update on the political agreement for a UK/EU treaty concerning Gibraltar, which was sealed on June 11, 2025. He described this agreement as 'a triumph of diplomacy' that 'removes physical barriers' and 'builds bridges'. The proposed treaty aims to create a 'sovereignty-neutral framework' that respects Gibraltar's sovereignty and identity, while providing 'unimpeded access' into the EU Schengen area and Customs Union. Picardo noted that this agreement seeks to deliver mutual economic benefit for both Gibraltar and the surrounding Campo de Gibraltar in Spain, marking a 'welcome shift in tone' from Spain regarding Gibraltar's role as a legitimate stakeholder.
5 Comments
ZmeeLove
Finally, an agreement that builds bridges, not barriers. Great news for the region.
Muchacho
The diplomatic efforts to secure a new treaty are commendable, offering potential economic benefits for the region. However, the term 'sovereignty-neutral' raises questions about how enduring this delicate balance can be without fully addressing underlying ownership disputes.
Coccinella
This whole thing is about tax havens, not genuine self-governance. It's a colonial relic.
Bermudez
While Gibraltar's right to self-determination is important, Spain's historical claim to the territory cannot be entirely dismissed. Finding a truly balanced solution that respects both sides is crucial for long-term stability.
Mariposa
The UN shouldn't be swayed by one-sided narratives. Spain's perspective matters.