The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations, known as Nihon Hidankyo, for their activism against nuclear weapons. The organization was founded in 1956 by survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, who have since been lobbying for governments worldwide to abolish all nuclear weapons. This is not the first time anti-nuclear weapon campaigners have been recognized by the Nobel Committee, with the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons winning in 2017 and Joseph Rotblat and the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs winning in 1995.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of the advocacy of Nihon Hidankyo, particularly in light of the devastating impact of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. She highlighted the need to remember the horrors of nuclear war and the duty to protect future generations from such catastrophes. The Nobel Peace Prize message serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by nuclear weapons in the world today, as conflicts continue to escalate, notably in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Alfred Nobel’s will stipulated that the Nobel Peace Prize should be awarded for promoting fraternity between nations, reducing standing armies, and promoting peace congresses. Since 1901, 104 Nobel Peace Prizes have been awarded to individuals and organizations that have advanced peace efforts globally. Last year, the prize was awarded to Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi for her advocacy of women’s rights, democracy, and opposition to the death penalty. The prize also recognized the hundreds of thousands of people who protested against discrimination and oppression by Iran’s theocratic regime.
The award to Nihon Hidankyo comes at a critical time when the taboo against the use of nuclear weapons is under pressure globally. The survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki have chosen to use their painful experiences to work towards a world free of nuclear weapons and to cultivate hope for peace. The Nobel Committee’s recognition of their efforts underscores the urgent need to address the threats posed by nuclear weapons and to advocate for their elimination.
The hibakusha, or survivors of the atomic bombings, have been at the forefront of efforts to raise awareness about the devastating impact of nuclear weapons and to push for disarmament. Their activism has been instrumental in influencing governments and international organizations to take action towards nuclear abolition. The Nobel Peace Prize serves as a platform to amplify their message and to inspire others to join the movement for a world free of nuclear weapons.
The award to Nihon Hidankyo is a testament to the resilience and determination of the survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Despite the physical suffering and painful memories they carry, they have channeled their experiences into a powerful call for peace and disarmament. The Nobel Peace Prize recognizes their unwavering commitment to advocating for a safer and more peaceful world, free from the threat of nuclear weapons.
