Federated States of Micronesia

Background

CLI is working to expand its constitutional literacy projects in the Pacific to the Federated States of Micronesia.

The Federated States of Micronesia is an island nation located in the Pacific Ocean, north of Papua New Guinea. The country is a sovereign state in free association with the United States. The Federated States of Micronesia were formerly part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, a United Nations Trust Territory under U.S. administration. In 1979 they adopted a constitution, and in 1986 independence was attained under a Compact of Free Association with the United States. The island nation is divided into four states: Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei, and Yap.

The Federated States of Micronesia are governed by the 1979 constitution, which guarantees fundamental human rights and establishes a separation of governmental powers.

Goals

Traditional Yapese Dancers

The goals of this project are consistent with those set for CLI’s project that is already established in Palau. We aspire to raise the constitutional consciousness of high school students in FSM, educating them on the importance of their nation’s constitution and the rights that it establishes. In addition, we work to impart to the students the importance of the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary in maintaining a stable and just society.

Current Status

CLI is currently seeking funding to support this project. With the help of local attorneys, we hope to launch our first constitutional literacy classes in the island state of Yap. As a long term goal, we hope to establish and support an annual Micronesian-wide moot court competition where students from many of the island nations in the Pacific may participate and learn about constitutional law and universal humanitarian rights.