May 1: National Day of the Marshall Islands

Ingrid Nováková, international specialist, May 1, 2025

Origin of the Marshall Islands' National Day

The Marshall Islands' National Day, celebrated on May 1, marks the adoption of the Marshallese constitution in 1979, granting the country autonomy after 32 years under American administration as a United Nations trust territory.

History of the Marshall Islands' independence

The Marshall Islands gained independence on October 21, 1986, after being under foreign rule for more than a century. Colonized by the Spanish Empire in the 16th century, they were ceded to Germany in 1885, then occupied by Japan during the First World War. After the Second World War, they became a United Nations trust territory, administered by the United States as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. During this period, the Americans used Bikini Atoll and Enewetak Atoll to conduct more than 60 nuclear tests between 1946 and 1958.

The independence process began with the adoption of their own constitution in 1979, establishing the Republic of the Marshall Islands with an elected president. Amata Kabua became the country's first president. The turning point came in 1982 with the signing of the Compact of Free Association with the United States, an agreement guaranteeing American financial assistance in exchange for military rights in the archipelago. This agreement came into force on October 21, 1986, the official date of independence. Since then, the Marshall Islands has held a seat at the UN and maintains international diplomatic relations, although its economy remains heavily dependent on American aid and revenue from fishing and the sale of flags of convenience.

Traditions and official celebrations

In Majuro, the capital, the day begins with a ceremony in front of the Capitol Building, where the president delivers a speech on the country's history and future. A military parade follows the ceremony, with the participation of police forces, firefighters, and youth associations such as the scouts. In the outer islands, such as Ebeye or Jaluit, outrigger canoe races take place. The holiday is also an occasion for family gatherings, where people share traditional dishes such as bōbō (coconut rice pudding), ma (citrus-marinated fish), and bwiro (fermented bananas).