The Compact of Free Association (COFA) agreements bind Palau, Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) to the United States of America (U.S.). In exchange for U.S. military access, the U.S. gives economic assistance and allows COFA citizens to live and work in the U.S. There is a long history between the U.S. and the COFA states that includes nuclear weapons testing, human rights violations, and exploitation by the U.S. military. The COFA between the U.S. and the Marshall Islands and FSM is up for renewal in 2023, and the one with Palau in 2024. The renewal negotiations will include important discussions over human rights, migration, and environmental protection. Historically, these negotiations have occurred largely behind closed doors. However, given the U.S.’s interests in the region, with the mobilization of key stakeholders in the COFA states, this is a powerful opportunity to advocate for equitable outcomes.
This project will engage with local stakeholders (CSOs and government) in COFA states to build a common vision for more equitable outcomes from the 2023-2024 COFA renewal negotiations. This will involve strategic assessments to illuminate COFA’s benefits and shortcomings and to identify possibilities for equity.
International Center for Advocates Against Discrimination (ICAAD) Project Brief
erinthomaswork.com 