July 18, 2025
JamRadio Newsdesk | Friday 18 July 2025
Today marks 30 years since the Soufrière Hills Volcano erupted on the Caribbean island of Montserrat, triggering one of the most devastating natural disasters in the history of Britain’s Overseas Territories. On 18 July 1995, pyroclastic flows buried the capital city of Plymouth, forcing the evacuation of the southern half of the island and displacing more than two-thirds of its population.
Over 11,000 Montserratians — all British Dependent Territories Citizens — more than two-thirds were forced to flee. Many escaped to neighbouring islands like Antigua, St,. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Maarten while others relocated to the north of Montserrat. Yet despite their legal status as British Nationals, thousands were denied full UK status and integration as British Citizens, many were left in legal limbo for three years until the UK government finally granted them Indefinite Leave to Remain in their own country.
During the same time, the UK accepted thousands of non-British refugees from the Balkans, prompting accusations of racial and geopolitical double standards. Meanwhile, the Clinton administration in the United States launched a humanitarian programme that allowed hundreds of Montserratians to resettle in the U.S. mainland and the nearby U.S. Virgin Islands — a gesture many still remember with gratitude.
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Today, Montserrat’s population remains just below 5,000, and the scars of displacement are still felt across generations. But the island’s story is also one of resilience and cultural pride.
Commemorations in London
The Montserrat Government's UK Office has led a series of commemorative events in London this month, including:
- A Parliamentary Reception at Speaker’s House, Westminster, hosted by Sir Lindsay Hoyle and attended by MPs, diplomats, and diaspora leaders.
- A National Thanksgiving Service at Methodist Central Hall, featuring tributes from the London Community Gospel Choir and a sermon by Rev Dr Ruthlyn Bradshaw.
- A photo essay and archival exhibition showcasing the island’s volcanic history and diaspora journey.
This weekend, the celebrations continue with the Montserrat Festival UK at Chestnuts Park in North London on Saturday 19 July. The festival will feature live music, Caribbean cuisine, and a Cultural Resilience Village honouring the migration and memory of Montserratians.
Kei-Retta Farrell, Montserrat’s UK representative, said:
“Montserrat is not only a story of disaster — it is a story of opportunity. We are committed to financial self-sufficiency and see the UK as a long-term partner in that journey.”
As Montserratians gather to honour their past and celebrate their culture, today’s anniversary is a reminder of both the injustice they endured and the strength they continue to embody.
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