Japan’s Nihon Hidankyo Honored for Lifelong Advocacy Against Nuclear Weapons Amid Global Tensions
The Japanese group Nihon Hidankyo, comprising survivors of the 1945 atomic bombings, has won the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts to abolish nuclear weapons. Known as “hibakusha,” these survivors were recognized by the Norwegian Nobel Committee for their significant contributions in building a global “nuclear taboo.”
Nobel Committee Chair Joergen Watne Frydnes warned that the taboo is under increasing pressure in today’s world, emphasizing that Nihon Hidankyo’s witness testimonies have been essential in preventing the future use of nuclear weapons.
Founded in 1956, Nihon Hidankyo sends survivors worldwide to share their personal accounts of the devastation caused by the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bombings killed approximately 140,000 in Hiroshima and thousands more in Nagasaki, forcing Japan’s surrender and ending World War II.
Tearful Reaction from Nihon Hidankyo Leadership
Toshiyuki Mimaki, co-head of Nihon Hidankyo, expressed his emotional reaction upon hearing the news. “Never did I dream this could happen,” he said, criticizing the belief that nuclear weapons bring peace and stressing the risk of nuclear arms falling into the hands of terrorists.
Despite being only three years old at the time of the Hiroshima bombing, Mimaki recalls seeing dazed and burnt survivors fleeing past his home.
Nobel Prize to Shine Light on Nuclear Threats
The prize, which includes a diploma, a gold medal, and a $1 million award, will be presented in December in Oslo. The committee’s decision to honor Nihon Hidankyo highlights the ongoing global threat of nuclear conflict amid rising tensions, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East.
While some had expected more controversial nominees such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) or the International Court of Justice to be chosen, Nihon Hidankyo’s selection brings renewed attention to the critical issue of nuclear disarmament.
This year’s Nobel Peace Prize had 286 nominees, including 197 individuals and 89 organizations.
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