Iroijlaplap facts for kids

Iroijlaplap (pronounced "ee-royj-lahp-lahp") are like the most important traditional leaders or paramount chiefs in the Marshall Islands. Imagine them as the highest-ranking leaders who have been chosen through old family traditions.

The word "Iroijlaplap" comes from two parts. Iroij (pronounced "ee-royj") means "chief." If a chief is a woman, she is called Leroij (pronounced "leh-royj"). The part -ļapļap (pronounced "lahp-lahp") is added to show that they are the "greatest" or "most important" chief. So, Iroijlaplap means "greatest chief."

What Do Iroijlaplap Do?

The leaders of the Marshall Islands respect the Iroijlaplap very much. Their special role is even written in the country's rulebook, called the Constitution.

The Council of Iroij

The Constitution also created a special group called the Council of Iroij. This council is made up of all the Iroijlaplap, and other important traditional leaders from different islands.

The Council of Iroij has a big job. They can talk about anything that is important to the Marshall Islands. They can also share their ideas and advice with the government leaders.

One of their most important powers is to review new laws. If the country's parliament, called the Nitijela, wants to pass a new law that affects old traditions, local customs, or how land is owned, the Council of Iroij can ask them to think about it again. This helps protect the unique culture and way of life in the Marshall Islands.

Who Are the Current Iroijlaplap?

Right now, there are two main Iroijlaplap who hold this important traditional title:

• Michael Kabua is the Iroijlaplap for the island of Kwajalein.
• Remios Hermios is the Iroijlaplap for most of the islands in the Ratak Chain. This includes many islands, but not Majuro, Arno, or Mili atolls.