Understanding Global Hibakusha Beyond Nuclear Security

The panel titled "Understanding Global Hibakusha Beyond Nuclear Security" aims to expand the definition of "Hibakusha," traditionally referring to survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, to include a broader spectrum of victims affected by nuclear actions since 1945. Recognizing a significant gap in nuclear security studies that often overlook the extensive suffering caused not only by wartime bombings but also by nuclear accidents and environmental disasters, this panel seeks to explore these humanitarian consequences.
Nuclear technology has led to a series of tragedies, encompassing both immediate devastation and long-term repercussions for communities exposed to radiation. The panel emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach that amplifies the voices of all individuals impacted by nuclear incidents worldwide, including those affected by catastrophes like Chernobyl and Fukushima, as well as victims of nuclear testing.
Mainstream discussions on nuclear security have predominantly centered on strategic deterrence and national interests, neglecting the moral and ethical implications for innocent civilians. This has perpetuated a cycle of silence surrounding the experiences of Hibakusha, denying them recognition and justice for their suffering. The panel will engage in comparative analyses of regional and cultural perceptions of Hibakusha, examining case studies that highlight how local histories inform the understanding of nuclear victimhood.
Furthermore, discussions will emphasize the importance of memorializing Hibakusha experiences within the broader narrative of nuclear security, advocating policies that recognize historical injustices. The panel will explore avenues for restorative justice, aiming to uncover pathways for healing and empowerment for Hibakusha.
Ultimately, the panel aspires to redefine the discourse surrounding Hibakusha by promoting an inclusive understanding that transcends traditional nuclear security narratives. This critical reassessment aims to honor the diverse experiences of all victims of nuclear actions while advocating for a future free from nuclear threats, enriching the academic dialogue on global memory, justice, and responsibility related to atomic bombings and their survivors.