**UN General Assembly Reaffirms Right of Return for Displaced Persons in Abkhazia and South Ossetia**
On June 3, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution reiterating the right of return of all displaced persons and refugees in Georgia’s Abkhazia and Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia. The resolution was adopted with 107 votes in favor, 9 against, and 49 abstentions.
**Countries that Voted Against the Resolution**
Russia, Belarus, Cuba, North Korea, Equatorial Guinea, Mali, Nicaragua, Sudan, and Zimbabwe voted “no”. This is a concerning trend, as these countries have consistently opposed the resolution. It’s worth noting that Syria, which had previously voted against the resolution, abstained this year after the fall of the Assad regime last December.
**Increase in Favors and Abstentions**
The number of votes in favor of the resolution increased from 103 to 107 countries compared to last year. This is a positive development, as it shows that more countries are recognizing the importance of upholding the rights of displaced persons. On the other hand, the number of abstentions increased by one, with countries like China and the United Arab Emirates choosing not to vote.
**Georgian Foreign Ministry Response**
The Georgian Foreign Ministry welcomed the adoption of the resolution, stating that it reaffirms the country’s commitment to upholding the rights of displaced persons. The ministry also thanked countries that supported the resolution, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, Lithuania, Canada, and Japan.
**Historical Context**
Georgia has been submitting the IDP resolution to the UN General Assembly since 2008. The resolution condemns the forced demographic changes in the Russia-occupied regions of Georgia, reaffirms the right of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to return to their homes, and stresses the need to respect and protect their property rights.
**Implications**
The adoption of this resolution has practical implications, as it directs the UN secretary-general to prepare an annual report on the situation of displaced persons in Georgia and on the implementation of the resolution. This will provide a crucial platform for tracking progress and holding countries accountable for upholding human rights.
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