UN calls for further US action over nuclear-test harm in the Marshall Islands
A report presented to the UN Human Rights Council called for further US action to address lasting harm from nuclear tests in the Marshall Islands. Recommendations include healthcare and access to secret archives. Islanders’ representatives described cancer and displacement in Geneva. Washington has previously maintained that past payments settled its obligations. No new compensation agreement or payment commitment was announced at the discussion.
Geopolitics··Midday
Council discusses lasting nuclear-test harm
The UN Human Rights Council in Geneva discussed the lasting effects of US nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands. Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Awa Dabo highlighted health harm and communities displaced by the tests. The debate concerned a legacy that still affects people and land in the Pacific island state.[1], [2]
A report presented to the Council called for further US action, including healthcare and release of secret archives. Dabo said the damage needed to be repaired. Access to the archives would provide more information about the tests and their consequences.[1]
Testing left cancer and displacement in its wake
The United States conducted 67 nuclear weapons tests in the islands between 1946 and 1958, including Castle Bravo at Bikini Atoll in 1954. The UN assessment addresses cancer, displacement and social stigma. Alson Kelen, whose family was displaced from Bikini, described his parents’ experience of cancer. Senator David Anitok also asked the United Nations for support.[1]
Washington has argued its payments settled the claims
The United States previously maintained that payments exceeding 600 million dollars to affected communities had fully settled its obligations. The UN report says a just settlement for the enduring effects has not been reached. The United States administered the islands after the Second World War and left the Human Rights Council in 2025. Its seat was empty during the discussion.[1]
