Every August 29, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) invites us to shine a spotlight on the International Day against Nuclear Tests 🌍💥. This year’s gathering echoed calls for peace, trust, and a world free from nuclear explosions.
“Today’s commemoration takes place in a world overshadowed by conflict, mistrust and the looming shadow of nuclear weapons,” said Izumi Nakamitsu, UN Undersecretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, delivering a message on behalf of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. For her, banning all nuclear tests is more than just a technical step—it’s “a moral and strategic necessity.” 🕊️
Robert Floyd, executive secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization, reminded everyone that 80 years have passed since the first nuclear experiment and the heartbreaking bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Yet no nuclear weapon has been used in war since 🌟. During the Cold War alone, about 2,000 nuclear blasts rocked our planet—an average of one test per week! Thankfully, since the 1996 treaty opened for signatures, we’ve seen fewer than a dozen tests—proof that science and global cooperation can win the day.
On the science side, Vivian Okeke from the International Atomic Energy Agency Liaison Office highlighted the power of nuclear tech for good. From treating cancer to boosting food production, protecting the environment, and powering clean energy 🌱⚛️, the right use of nuclear science can fuel progress—so long as it stays safe and secure.
Back in December 2009, the UNGA declared August 29 as the International Day against Nuclear Tests to remind us all: learning about the impact of nuclear explosions is key to building a nuclear-weapon-free world. Let’s keep the conversation going—because peace starts with awareness! 🚀✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
