Pacific nations seek justice for nuclear testing impacts

Supporters of the UN treaty banning nuclear weapons gathered in New York this month. They aimed to encourage more countries, especially in the Pacific, to join the treaty. The discussion comes amid ongoing concerns about the health and environmental impacts of nuclear testing in the region. Oemwa Johnson, from Kiribati, shared her grandfather's stories about US and UK nuclear tests in the 1950s. She highlighted the lack of consultation and protection for her community, which has suffered severe health problems due to radiation exposure. Johnson emphasized the need for accountability and recognition of their struggles. Between 1946 and 1996, over 300 nuclear tests were conducted in the Pacific by the US, UK, and France, affecting several countries, including Kiribati and the Marshall Islands. These nations have long sought justice for the repercussions of these tests. The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), effective since 2021, currently has 98 signatories. However, major nuclear powers, such as the US, UK, and France, have not ratified it, stating that nuclear weapons are essential for their security. At the UN, discussions included voices from affected regions. Hinamoeura Morgant-Cross, from French Polynesia, spoke about her family’s health issues related to French nuclear tests. Other representatives, like New Zealand’s UN official, highlighted the rising tensions between nuclear-armed nations and the importance of the treaty for Pacific nations. The Marshall Islands, site of numerous US tests, has not joined the TPNW due to concerns about its terms potentially reducing US accountability. The country seeks more comprehensive measures to address the legacies of nuclear testing. Daniel Johnson, who advocates for awareness about these issues, views the TPNW as a crucial step towards justice. She insists that the past should not be forgotten, stressing the importance of acknowledging these experiences to prevent future tragedies. Johnson, speaking at the UN, affirmed their commitment to demand justice actively.