In 2024, the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, the Japanese Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations. This historic recognition honored the hibakusha, survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, who have dedicated their lives to advocating for nuclear disarmament and peace.

Established in 1956, Nihon Hidankyo became the first nationwide organization representing hibakusha. Its founding came at a time when survivors were grappling with not only severe health consequences from radiation exposure but also social stigma and financial hardships. Despite these challenges, hibakusha began to share their testimonies globally, raising awareness of the catastrophic humanitarian impact of nuclear weapons.

For decades, Nihon Hidankyo has been at the forefront of anti-nuclear activism. Hibakusha have traveled worldwide, speaking at international conferences and advocating for nuclear abolition. Their testimonies played a crucial role in shaping the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), adopted by the United Nations in 2017. The organization has persistently called for nuclear-armed nations, including Japan’s key ally, the United States, to join the treaty.

The 2024 Nobel Peace Prize acknowledged Nihon Hidankyo’s relentless efforts in nuclear disarmament. The Nobel Committee praised the organization for its grassroots activism, which has kept the memory of Hiroshima and Nagasaki alive while inspiring global action against nuclear weapons. This recognition serves as a testament to the resilience of the hibakusha and their unwavering commitment to ensuring that nuclear devastation is never repeated.

With hibakusha aging, the Nobel Prize highlights the urgency of passing their message to younger generations. Nihon Hidankyo’s award not only honors past sacrifices but also reinforces the importance of continued advocacy for a nuclear-free world.