A group of high school students from Japan has returned from Switzerland after submitting a petition against nuclear weapons, signed by over 96,000 people, to the United Nations Office in Geneva.
The group, consisting of 22 members of the Youth Advocacy for a Nuclear-Free World organization, held a press conference in Nagasaki on Saturday, just one day after their return.
In their annual effort to promote complete nuclear disarmament, the group has been collecting signatures from across Japan to submit to the United Nations in Geneva.
During the press conference, the members shared insights received from officials regarding nuclear disarmament. They emphasized the need for young people to continue raising their voices strongly to push for the elimination of nuclear weapons.
Additionally, the group attended a reception where they exchanged views with representatives from various countries on this critical issue.
Ohara Yuka, a high school student from Nagasaki, expressed that she realized the importance of engaging in dialogue with those who hold different perspectives and understanding their circumstances. Yuka expressed her desire to find effective ways to convey the feelings and thoughts of atomic bomb survivors, while also contributing to building a peaceful society free of nuclear weapons and conflict.
Attending the event was Yamakawa Takeshi, 87 years old, a survivor of the atomic bombing by the United States. He stated that the active participation of young people in such activities brings great hope as the number of survivors gradually decreases.
This inspiring commitment to creating a safer world resonates deeply with our mission at INPOS. As the students work to eliminate the dangers of nuclear weapons, we at INPOS strive to “Leave the better world than we found it.” By advancing sustainable energy solutions and promoting environmental responsibility, we aim to contribute to the same goal—a safer, cleaner, and more peaceful world for future generations.