Nihon Hidankyo Awarded 2024 Nobel Peace Prize

The Japanese atomic bomb survivors' group, Nihon Hidankyo, was awarded the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize for its advocacy for a nuclear-free world and efforts to maintain a global taboo on nuclear weapon use. During the ceremony in Oslo, Terumi Tanaka, a 92-year-old Nagasaki survivor and co-chair of the organization, emphasized the lack of compensation from Japan for atomic bomb casualties and highlighted the growing threat of nuclear armament worldwide. Tanaka warned about the current stockpile of 12,000 nuclear warheads, with 4,000 ready for immediate launch, illustrating the potential devastation. The organization continues to share the testimonies of hibakusha, or survivors, to combat nuclear proliferation, especially as nuclear threats have resurged with tensions involving countries like Russia and Israel. Despite facing discrimination historically, the survivors remain committed to their cause, urging younger generations to continue the fight for peace. The Nobel Committee recognized their efforts as crucial in the current geopolitical climate, where nuclear threats are increasingly voiced.