I join the chorus of international support for the landmark resolution recognising the right to access to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment as a universal human right, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 28 July 2022. I commend the global solidarity on this critical issue and congratulate all who contributed to this major milestone.
As large oceanic States, our Blue Pacific depends on the environment, on the ocean and on our biodiversity for our livelihoods and well-being. Our peoples have deep connections with their natural resources and environment. Indeed, we have a long-standing commitment to protect our environment, and through our Boe Declaration, we prioritise environmental and resource security.
We know that environmental damage has direct and indirect implications for the effective enjoyment of all human rights. For over seven decades, we have suffered, and continue to suffer, the enduring impacts and injustices of nuclear testing; injustices to our people’s rights, health, their homes and environment. Justice remains evasive.