Marshall Islands Releases 2026 UN Voluntary Country Report

Photo Sources: United Nations, Federated States of Micronesia Mission to the United Nations

By Christopher Cottrell

July 13, 2026, Marshall Islands___The Marshall Islands has released their UN Voluntary Country Report for 2026, noting their successes and challenges.

Commented President Heine, “The Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) is pleased to present its second Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. As a Small Island Developing State and one of the world’s four atoll nations, we continue to confront profound and existential challenges.”

President Heine continued, “Rising sea levels, climate change, geographic isolation, limited resources, the enduring nuclear legacy, and most recently the sharp rise in fuel costs and cost of living have tested our resilience. Yet the strength and unity of our people remain steadfast. Guided by our National Strategic Plan (NSP), we continue to chart a course that protects our islands, our culture, and our future. The VNR process has allowed us to reflect on progress, identify lessons learned, and reaffirm our shared responsibility to build a sustainable and inclusive future.”

She continued, “It highlights progress in health and education, disaster preparedness, renewable energy, digital connectivity, social protection, and our continued leadership on climate action and nuclear justice. It also acknowledges the persistent gaps—particularly for neighboring island communities, youth, women and girls, and persons with disabilities. Ensuring that no one is left behind remains central to our national vision.”

Highlights of the report include:

“Social and Culture: To support vulnerable population, a new Social Support Scheme provides monthly welfare allowance for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. An Early Childhood Development program in recent years has yielded results, with improved learning opportunities and child nutrition.

Environment, Climate Change and Resilience: The finalization of RMI’s National Adaptation Plan in 2023 is a clear statement to RMI’s commitment and action to address the urgent issue of climate change and to access climate finance.

Infrastructure: The RMI Urban Resilience Project, approved in 2022, is a major project that focuses on climate proofed infrastructures in the urban areas.

Economic Development: The Aō Kapijuknen “My Homeland” project was launched with the goal to empower women in business and tourism sector. The project provided seed funding to cover start up costs, and provided training on business planning and management. As a result, the number of women entrepreneurs has increased.

Good Governance: A new Financial Management Information System was implemented as part of broad range of public financial management reforms aimed at fostering transparency and accountability.”

For the full report, read here. 

Marshalls were praised by neighbor nation Federated States of Micronesia’s Permanent Mission to the UN who stated, “The F.S.M. congratulates the R.M.I. for its ongoing leadership work to improve the lives of its citizens centered on the UN Sustainable Development Goals.”