Decolonization: the Trust Territory of the Pacific Island (micronesia) Political and Constitutional Development
United Nations Department of Political Affairs (April 1993). Decolonization: the Trust Territory of the Pacific Island (micronesia) Political and Constitutional Development (Report). United Nations Department of Political Affairs.
- Has attachment: File:G83BFKLD.pdf
Abstract: Explores the historical and political evolution of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, focusing on the period from 1947 to 1978, and the eventual establishment of the Compact of Free Association.
Outlines the initial division of the Trust Territory after World War II, with some territories acquired from defeated states while others were willingly placed under the United Nations-administered Trusteeship System. The document discusses the development of infrastructure and economic activities like agriculture and fishing during the trusteeship period.
Describes how four distinct political entities emerged within the territory, with the Northern Marianas separating and the Federated States of Micronesia being expected to form a single political unit. However, a referendum led to the formation of three distinct entities, reflecting varying degrees of acceptance of draft constitutions across the regions.
Examines the evolution of constitutional government across these entities, detailing the distribution of power among national, state, and local governments [9], as well as public finance management.
Details the Compact of Free Association's development, which defined political status and economic relations between the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the United States. It also discussed the monetary provisions agreed upon for these entities. The Compact was subject to approval through referendums, with varying levels of support from the local populations.
Concludes with recommendations from the Trusteeship Council and highlights international oversight during referenda processes, indicating a degree of weariness in the population towards repeated votes on their political status.
