On 20 January 2002, a mini-conference on decolonisation was held at the UNPO Secretariat in The Hague. The purpose of this conference was to identify common problems UNPO Member nations shared with regards to decolonisation processes, particularly regarding the failure to bring about self- determination. A discussion paper was prepared, reviewing some of the different eventualities which ultimately led to the integration of peoples into states, without their prior consent or consultation.

Mr Myo Win of the Shan presented a paper on the ”Contemporary Colonialism and Decolonization”. Representatives from Aceh, Albanians in Macedonia, Cabinda, East Turkestan, Greek Minority in Albania, Khmer Krom, Nagalim, Ogoni, South Mollucas all attended the conference.

Participants identified common problems with the way decolonisation was carried out in their regions, resulting, in their view, to the substitution of one alien colonising power by another local colonising power. There was agreement that the discussion paper supplied offered a good overview of the subject. A common platform was established that participants would work together in furthering their interest to have the processes of how decolonisation was implemented reviewed, with a goal of highlighting the problem internationally and taking the issue to the UN. The first step to be taken is to seek advice on how to put the problem within a juridical framework, and how to raise awareness of the issues in the international media.