MAJURO, MARSHALL ISLANDS – October 10, 2025 – H.E. President Hilda C. Heine met with Mr. Raphael Pangalangan, Human Rights Officer from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), at the Cabinet Conference Room to discuss ongoing cooperation on transitional justice and human rights initiatives, particularly in relation to the Marshall Islands’ nuclear legacy.
During his mission to the Marshall Islands, Mr. Pangalangan engaged with national institutions, government officials, and civil society representatives to strengthen capacity-building and gather perspectives on transitional justice. These engagements aimed to deepen collaboration and ensure that local voices shape the path forward.
The initial report, commissioned under HRC Resolution 51/35 and published in September 2024 (A/HRC/57/77), focused on truth-seeking in relation to human rights impacts of U.S. nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands. The report emphasized information gaps as the most prevalent issue raised by Marshallese communities, underscoring the need for truth and transparency as foundational steps toward healing.
In response to these findings on the human rights impacts of US nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands, the UN High Commissioner recommended a comprehensive transitional justice approach. The second report builds on this by incorporating youth perspectives through spoken word, visual art, and media from the RMI, US, FSM, and Guam, reflecting a deep and growing awareness of the Marshall Islands’ nuclear legacy. Engagements will continue throughout 2026, with a focus on non-recurrence as well as inclusive dialogue with US stakeholders. The report will be presented at the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council in September 2026.
President Heine expressed her gratitude to Mr. Pangalangan and the National Nuclear Commission for their dedicated efforts and affirmed her anticipation for the completion of the second report. As a steadfast advocate for this work and through her leadership, President Heine continues to amplify the voices of nuclear-affected communities and strengthen the Marshall Islands’ call for meaningful redress and global responsibility.
