Remarks delivered by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General, Baron Divavesi at the 2025 Republic of the Marshall Islands Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day
03 March 2025, Majouro, Republic of the Marshall Islands.
Madam President, Her Excellency Dr. Hilda Heine,
Government and Parliamentary Representatives,
Traditional Leaders,
The People of the Republic of the Marshall Islands,
Ekamawir omo, Iakwe, and a heartfelt good morning to all of you.
Today, we gather in the spirit of remembrance and resilience, honouring the memory of those whose lives were irrevocably altered by the injustices of nuclear testing. I extend my deepest gratitude to the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands for their warm invitation and for allowing me to stand with you in this solemn commemoration.
It is profoundly moving for me to walk alongside you connecting with my heritage. My ties to the Marshall Islands are more than just familial; they are a testament to a shared history that binds us in grief and strength.
We are here today to mourn the past and honour the spirit of survival that has defined the Marshallese people. The Marshall Islands' story is one of resilience and teaches us that unity can forge change. Your decision to be part of the Rarotonga Treaty—born from the ashes of nuclear testing—is a monumental step towards unity among Pacific Island states, and I commend you for that.
Yet, we must not forget that the shadows of our nuclear past continue to linger. Decades later, the impact of the Castle Bravo detonation continues to resonate in various aspects of our lives today.
In the spirit of unity and healing, the Pacific Islands Forum has stood in solidarity with you, advocating for justice and accountability. At the 53rd Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting in Tonga last year, our leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Marshall Islands in seeking a fair resolution to the consequences of United States' nuclear testing.
We recognise the importance of constructive dialogue in addressing historical grievances. It is therefore imperative that we continue our collaborative efforts with our partners, rooted in mutual respect, shared values and commitment to open dialogue.
The Marshall Islands’ candidacy for the Human Rights Council for the term 2025 – 2027 is another important milestone toward ensuring our voices are heard globally. As outlined in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, we collectively aspire to effective leadership aimed at achieving a nuclear-free future—both in the Pacific and across the globe.
As I reflect on today's commemoration, I am reminded of the words of the late Minister Tony De Brum, who embodied our struggle when he declared that the Marshallese story is vital in the fight against nuclear weapons. It is a call to action for us all: fiercely and tirelessly advocating for nuclear disarmament.
In this fragile world, where geostrategic interests loom, we must unite as one voice. We owe it to those who suffered and continue to suffer to ensure that history does not repeat itself. Let us not forget and work together toward a future where peace prevails.
Excellencies, I wish to conclude by renewing my full commitment to ensuring justice for all affected regions, including the Marshall Islands, Kiribati, French Polynesia, and across our beloved Blue Pacific continent.
May God bless the Republic of the Marshall Islands and our beloved Blue Pacific continent.
Kommol Tata, and thank you.
[ENDS]
