National and local leaders gathered last week for the first RMI National Security and Substance/Drug Summit, aimed at strengthening coordination to address the growing threat of illicit drugs and broader national security challenges.
Hosted by the Office of National Security (ONS), the summit brought together mayors from across the outer atolls, members of the Council of Irooj, national agencies, law enforcement, and community representatives. The one-day summit was held in coordination with the Marshall Islands Mayors Association that met all last week at Marshall Islands Resort’s Melele Room.
In her keynote address, President Hilda C. Heine emphasized unity and shared responsibility in confronting these challenges.
“I encourage all of you to engage openly in today’s discussions,” she said. “Share your concerns, your experiences, and your recommendations. This is our opportunity to come together as one nation to address a common challenge. Together, we can strengthen our communities, protect our youth, and ensure a safer and more secure future for the Republic of the Marshall Islands.”
Director of National Security Chris deBrum highlighted the urgency of the issue and the need for collective action.
“The challenges we face — particularly the growing impact of illicit drugs — are not isolated issues,” he said. “They affect our families, our youth, and the safety and stability of our islands.
“Government alone cannot address these challenges. The leadership of mayors, the wisdom of the Council of Irooj, and the voices of our communities are essential.”
Participants were briefed on national security priorities, drug trends, and law enforcement challenges, including gaps in outer island policing. A key focus of the summit was ensuring community voices were heard, with mayors and traditional leaders sharing firsthand experiences and identifying local challenges.
The summit also introduced a draft National Counter-Drug Framework outlining a coordinated approach to prevention, enforcement, treatment, and community resilience. Participants were invited to provide input to help shape a future national strategy.
The mayors association welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with national agencies and expressed interest in continued dialogue on issues such as maritime security, foreign influence, cybersecurity, and returned citizens.
As an outcome of the summit, MIMA is expected to consider a resolution supporting stronger cooperation with ONS, the Substance Task Force, and the Marshall Islands Police Department.
Discussions are also underway to develop a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize coordination between national and local levels.
“The conversations we started here are only the beginning,” said Renee Cabral, who coordinated the summit on behalf of ONS and serves as In-Country Program Manager for Lawyers Without Borders. “Moving forward, our focus will be on turning these discussions into concrete actions that strengthen the safety and resilience of communities across the Marshall Islands.”
Participants wrapped up the one-day session with a shared commitment to continue working together to address drug-related challenges and strengthen national security through partnership and community-driven solutions.