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In this essay, Desmond Narain Doulatram explores the pivotal role of women as peacemakers, or “Lejmanjuri,” within the cultural, historical, and political context of the Marshall Islands, emphasising their integral connection to the idea of nuclear justice. By examining the matrilineal traditions and the enduring influence of female leaders in conflict resolution, environmental sustainability, and nuclear activism, the author counters Western narratives that often overshadow indigenous voices with white privilege and saviorism. Through stories of resilience, cultural strength, and advocacy—such as the efforts of Dorothy Kabua and modern activists like Ariana Tibon—the essay underscores the importance of recognising and amplifying the contributions of Marshallese women, who continue to shape their communities and fight for justice and reparations in the face of historical and structural injustices.

About the Author

Desmond Narain Doulatram is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Pacific Studies at the University of the South Pacific (USP). He is also employed as a Social Science Instructor and is the Co-Chair at the College of the Marshall Islands (CMI) Liberal Arts Department where he teaches and has taught History of the Marshall Islands, Contemporary Social Issues in Micronesia, Issues in Pacific Studies, World History, Introduction to Sociology, Pacific Geography, Upward Bound Creative Writing  and Fundamentals of Speech. In addition to his teaching responsibilities at CMI, he is and has been a member of the Curriculum Committee, Learning Support Committee, Executive Council, Enrollment Management Committee, Institutional Review Board, and the Social Justice Taskforce.  Additionally, he was a National Board Member for the Marshall Islands Public School System (PSS) representing the interests of Parents, Guardians & Students. He is also a Co-founder to two NGOs being Jo-JiKuM (Jodrikdrik in Jipan ene eo Ekutok Maroro) translated as Youths for a Greener RMI and REACH-MI (Radiation Exposure Awareness Crusaders for Humanity-Marshall Islands) which deals with the nuclear issue. He has previously worked on Climate Change under the Marshall Islands Office of the President. He also worked as an educator at Marshall Islands Ministry of Education before obtaining his MA degree in Asia-Pacific Studies with a Social Science and Humanities concentration from the University of San Francisco. He obtained his BSc in Social Science with an emphasis in Pre-Law from Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU). He has also obtained a Professional Certificate in Online Education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Disclaimer: The opinions articulated in this work represent the views of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Asia-Pacific Leadership Network or any of its members. The APLN’s website is a source of authoritative research and analysis and serves as a platform for debate and discussion among our senior network members, experts and practitioners, as well as the next generation of policymakers, analysts and advocates. Comments and responses can be emailed to apln@apln.network.

Image: An event hosted by REACH-MI (Radiation Exposure Awareness Crusaders of Humanity for the Marshall Islands), an NGO that conducts advocacy work and played an active role in pushing the Marshallese government to be more active in pursuing nuclear justice, partially through the creation of the National Nuclear Commission (https://www.reach-mi.org/).