Nihon Hidankyō awarded 2024 Nobel Peace Prize for efforts against nuclear weapons

Nihon Hidankyō, a grassroots organization representing survivors of the atomic bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, has been awarded the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee recognized their efforts toward achieving a world free from nuclear weapons and highlighted their testimonies as critical reminders that nuclear arms must never be used again.

Nihon Hidankyō’s Secretary-General, Sueichi Kido, who survived the bombing in Nagasaki, shared his harrowing experience of being just two kilometers from the epicenter, a powerful reminder of the impact these weapons can have. The bombings resulted in the deaths of over 70,000 individuals in Nagasaki alone.

The Nobel Committee praised Nihon Hidankyō for its significant contributions to establishing a global nuclear taboo that has discouraged the use of such weapons for nearly eight decades. However, the committee expressed concern that this taboo is under threat, as nuclear powers modernize their arsenals, and new countries seem poised to develop nuclear capabilities.

The award emphasizes the need for continued efforts toward nuclear disarmament amidst rising geopolitical tensions. In recent statements, global leaders highlighted the importance of the voices of the hibakusha, or atomic bomb survivors, in advocating for peace and reminding the world of the consequences of nuclear warfare.

Recognizing the historical context of the atomic bombings, which killed approximately 120,000 people, the Nobel Committee reiterated that these weapons remain the most destructive force known to humanity. The acknowledgment of Nihon Hidankyō not only celebrates past survivors but also underscores the relentless work needed to foster a peaceful future devoid of nuclear threats.