During the 2025 Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day in the Marshall Islands, Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa delivered a poignant address about the lasting effects of nuclear testing in the Pacific. He reaffirmed the commitment to justice and solidarity among nations impacted by these tests, highlighting the resilience of the Marshallese people as a driving force for unity and healing in the region.
Waqa praised the decision of the Marshall Islands to engage with the Rarotonga Treaty, recognizing it as a significant move toward collective strength among Pacific nations. He saw the treaty as a symbol of hope against the backdrop of the devastating heritage of nuclear testing, emphasizing that true change arises from unity. “Your spirit of survival is a powerful testament that inspires a collective call to action,” he remarked, reminding those present that the consequences of nuclear detonations endure far beyond the initial blasts.
Drawing on a deep personal connection to the Marshall Islands, Waqa shared the collective grief and hope with the audience. He articulated that remembrance serves as a foundation for advocating justice and accountability not just for the present but also for future generations. “In our collective remembrance, we find strength to advocate for justice and accountability,” he stated.
He commended the Marshall Islands for its significant regional role and acknowledged the Pacific Islands Forum’s support. Reflecting on events such as the Castle Bravo detonation, he pointed to the ongoing path toward healing and justice.
Waqa emphasized the necessity of sustained dialogue on historical grievances and reiterated the Forum’s support for the Marshall Islands as it seeks equitable restitution from the repercussions of U.S. nuclear testing. He also addressed the Marshall Islands’ candidacy for the United Nations Human Rights Council for the term 2025-2027, viewing it as an essential opportunity to amplify global awareness of the nation’s challenges.
Additionally, Waqa discussed the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, uniting aspirations for a nuclear-free future and advocating against the proliferation of nuclear weapons. He called for continued activism toward nuclear disarmament, underscoring the importance of learning from past experiences to build a secure and peaceful future. “Together, we must ensure that we do not merely remember, but also act—fiercely—for those who have suffered,” he urged.
Waqa concluded with a heartfelt commitment to support all regions affected by nuclear fallout, including the Marshall Islands, Kiribati, and French Polynesia, asserting that the collective voice of the Pacific will resonate on the global stage.
This day serves not only as a remembrance of past traumas but also as a beacon of resilience and hope for future generations, encouraging Pacific nations to strive for unity and justice in the face of adversity.
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