Nobel Peace Prize 2024: Nihon Hidankyo’s Call for Global Nuclear Disarmament

Survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki Receive Nobel Peace Prize

On December 10, 2024, Nihon Hidankyo, the organization representing atomic bomb survivors, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its decades-long advocacy for nuclear disarmament. Three survivors, including 92-year-old Terumi Tanaka, accepted the award on behalf of the group, urging world leaders to eliminate nuclear weapons and prevent another Hiroshima or Nagasaki.

Growing Nuclear Threats and the Urgency for Action

In his acceptance speech, Tanaka warned of the alarming rise in nuclear threats, highlighting that over 4,000 warheads are on standby for immediate launch. He expressed grave concerns about Russia’s nuclear rhetoric amid the Ukraine war and recent statements from Israeli officials regarding potential nuclear deployment in Gaza. Tanaka stressed that the “nuclear taboo” that has prevented nuclear weapon use for decades is now at risk of being broken.

Nuclear Powers Expand Their Arsenals Despite Disarmament Goals

The Norwegian Nobel Committee, in awarding the prize to Nihon Hidankyo, condemned the continued expansion of nuclear arsenals by the world’s nuclear powers. Despite commitments under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), countries such as the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom are modernizing their nuclear capabilities instead of reducing them. The Nobel Committee urged these nations to return to arms control negotiations.

Nihon Hidankyo’s Role in Preserving the Memory of Nuclear Devastation

With the last generation of atomic bomb survivors aging, Nihon Hidankyo is working to ensure their testimony continues to educate future generations about the horrors of nuclear war. Tanaka’s speech served as a final plea for world leaders to recommit to nuclear disarmament, warning that without action, the lessons of Hiroshima and Nagasaki risk being forgotten.

Global Action Needed to Prevent Nuclear Catastrophe

The Nobel Committee emphasized that governments must act urgently to curb nuclear proliferation. Countries that have not ratified the NPT must do so, and nuclear powers must demonstrate real commitment to reducing their arsenals. As Nihon Hidankyo continues its mission, the world faces a critical decision: uphold the nuclear taboo or risk repeating history’s darkest moments.