A/RES/53/66
Page 2
Recalling further the emphasis placed in the solemn declaration on the terms of Tokelau's intended
free association relationship with New Zealand, including the expectation that the form of help Tokelau
could continue to expect from New Zealand in promoting the well-being of its people, besides its external
interests, would be clearly established in the framework of that relationship,
Noting with appreciation the continuing exemplary cooperation of New Zealand as the administering
Power with regard to the work of the Special Committee on the Situation with regard to the
Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples
relating to Tokelau and its readiness to permit access by United Nations visiting missions to the Territory,
Noting also with appreciation the collaborative contribution to the development of Tokelau by New
Zealand and the specialized agencies and other organizations of the United Nations system, in particular
the United Nations Development Programme and the International Telecommunication Union,
Recalling the dispatch in 1994 of a United Nations visiting mission to Tokelau,
Noting that, as a small island Territory, Tokelau exemplifies the situation of most remaining
Non-Self-Governing Territories,
Noting also that, as a case study pointing to successful decolonization, Tokelau has wider significance
for the United Nations as it seeks to complete its work in decolonization,
1. Notes that Tokelau remains firmly committed to the development of self-government and to an
act of self-determination that would result in Tokelau assuming a status in accordance with the options
on future status for Non-Self-Governing Territories contained in principle VI of the annex to General
Assembly resolution 1541 (XV) of 15 December 1960;
2.
Also notes Tokelau's desire to move at its own pace towards an act of self-determination;
3. Commends Tokelau's ongoing work in charting a distinctive constitutional course, reflecting its
unique traditions and environment;
4. Also commends Tokelau for current initiatives and endeavours, based on wide consultation with
its people, to construct a true “house of Tokelau”, acknowledging the role of the village as the foundation
of Tokelau, as well as the need to continue the process of strengthening the basis of national selfgovernment;
5. Acknowledges the attention being given to broader matters of governance, including Tokelau's
efforts to establish clear local channels of responsibility and accountability in national and village
government;
6. Notes the desire of Tokelau, in consultation with the Government of New Zealand, to take over
responsibility for the Tokelau public service and the willingness of the Government of New Zealand to
make the necessary legislative changes, reflecting its already well-advanced policy of devolving that part
of government which deals with the interests of all of Tokelau;
7. Acknowledges Tokelau's need for reassurance, given that local resources cannot adequately cover
the material side of self-determination, and the ongoing responsibility of Tokelau's external partners to
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