The Making of the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty :"Niu Fri Pasifik"

Abstract

Story of the growth of anti-nuclear sentiment in our region leading to the 1985 Rarotonga Treaty which created a nuclear free zone in the South Pacific. Filmed in 5 countries, (New Zealand, Kiribati, Vanuatu, Australia and Palau), the story backgrounds the experiences of bomb testing and the nuclear arms race which led to the formation of the Nuclear Free Pacific Movement. This movement joined with some newly independent states to push forward the proposal for a nuclear free zone at the South Pacific Forum where political forces for and against the treaty were played out. Underscoring the imagery is Pacific music ranging from traditional string bands and choirs to contemporary rock groups. "Niuklia Fri Pasifik" is a powerful account of how the little people can make a difference and how the big people will try to stop them.