Description
Since World War II, the Sea of Islands--the Pacific region where people live on islands and are connected by their common ocean—has faced two major socio-ecological crises with lasting existential impacts: nuclear testing and climate change. From the 1940s to the 1990s, nuclear testing in Māòhi Nui/French Polynesia, the Marshall Islands, and Kiribati caused widespread contamination and environmental damage, including the destruction of fishing grounds, and forced resettlements. Climate change, meanwhile, presents severe threats through rising sea levels, extreme weather, and loss of livelihood. Both crises are rooted in colonial histories, with powerful states denying the rights of local populations. In both cases, island communities and governments have called for justice and compensation. In international regimes on climate change and nuclear weapons control, discussions on loss, damages as well as victim/survivors’ assistance are increasingly prominent.
This paper compares compensation claims and policies related to nuclear testing and climate change. It explores how these mechanisms may reflect and reinforce colonial power dynamics, for example if they are used as geostrategic tool to enhance influence. It will focus on the USA, France, and Great Britain—responsible nuclear powers and high-emission countries. The aim is to provide insights into compensation mechanisms that better align with the calls for justice from nuclear survivors and climate activists.
