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The Mainichi
06-08-2025
- Politics
- The Mainichi
Full text of Hiroshima Governor's Peace Message on 80th anniversary of atomic bombing
HIROSHIMA -- The following is the full text of the Peace Message read on Aug. 6 by Hiroshima Gov. Hidehiko Yuzaki at a ceremony to mark 80 years since the 1945 atomic bombing of the city of Hiroshima. **** On this day, which marks the 80th year after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, on behalf of all people of Hiroshima Prefecture, I wish to offer my humble and sincere prayers for the souls of those who lost their lives in the atomic bombing. I would also like to extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and express my heartfelt sympathies to the hibakusha, the atomic bomb survivors, who are suffering even today. Shortly after the atomic bombing, it was said that not a single grass or tree would grow in Hiroshima for 75 years. Five years have already passed since that milestone, and Hiroshima has undergone dramatic transformation, marked by the opening of a new station building -- now the third generation since the bombing. Many tourists are visiting the city from around the world, and we see Hiroshima has become a peaceful, thriving city. At the same time, however, we are aware that the prosperity we are enjoying today is fragile, as the international situation shifts from one based on the rule of law and diplomacy to a world ruled by overt violence. Given this situation, some people argue that the importance of nuclear deterrence is growing. Is this really so? Certainly, the concept of deterrence may be necessary to prevent the outbreak of wars but there are limitations. Since the Peloponnesian War in ancient Greece, deterrence supported by the balance of power has been broken repeatedly. This is because it is ultimately a psychological construct or an idea that exists only in our minds. Unlike universal laws such as the law of universal gravitation, deterrence is not an undeniable truth but a fiction. Deterrence has been broken by over-confident leaders, extreme egoism, pressure from an agitated populace, and widespread misunderstandings or misconceptions. As Japan started the Pacific War despite its overwhelming disadvantage in the balance of power, human beings do not always make rational decisions, which is a fundamental assumption of deterrence theory, especially nuclear deterrence theory. In fact, nuclear deterrence has not been safely sustained over the past 80 years, but has, at times, been on the brink of collapse. Historical records reveal several instances where the risk of nuclear catastrophe was averted only because of intentional breaches of protocol and the refusal to launch a nuclear missile. An ancient Chinese poet once wrote, "Ruined is the nation; remain the mountains and rivers." In the past, the foundation for reconstruction remained even after a nation was ruined by the breakdown of deterrence. "Remains the nation; ruined are the mountains and rivers." Should nuclear deterrence fail someday, as suggested by historical evidence, and should nuclear war occur, it would be impossible to save the human race and the Earth from unrecoverable devastation. What is the meaning of national security if it protects only the concept of a nation but has the possibility to lead unrecoverable end for its land and people? Deterrence does not simply refer to a balance of military power, but it also encompasses broader elements such as soft power and diplomacy. To ensure the sustainability of humanity even if deterrence fails, we must eliminate nuclear weapons as a component of deterrence. Reportedly, more than 14 trillion yen (about $84.76 billion) is spent annually to maintain nuclear deterrence. What we must do now is to invest just one tenth of this amount into resources and knowledge to build a new security system without nuclear weapons. Nuclear abolition is not a far-off lodestar shining in the sky. As a hibakusha, who was pinned under a collapsed building, crawled towards a ray of light little by little in the darkness and ultimately escaped the rubble with her life, we must pursue the abolition of nuclear weapons. It is a tangible, realistic goal within our reach, the failure of which could mean death. "Don't give up! Keep pushing! See the light? Crawl towards it." * Many hibakusha who were unable to escape the rubble died in darkness and agony. To honor their memory, we must never give up, and continue to crawl persistently toward the light of nuclear abolition, ensuring the lives and security of the human race and the earth. Lastly, Hiroshima Prefecture will never stop its efforts toward nuclear abolition. With this vow, I would like to conclude my message of peace. The part marked with an asterisk (*) in the governor's speech is a quotation from the speech delivered by Ms. Setsuko Thurlow at the Nobel Peace Prize Award Ceremony on Dec. 10, 2017. (Copyright: The Nobel Foundation, Stockholm, 2017)
The Mainichi
25-04-2025
- Politics
- The Mainichi
Hiroshima group releases annual nuclear disarmament report evaluating 34 countries
HIROSHIMA -- Amid rising risks of nuclear weapons use around the world, a coalition made up of public and private sector peace groups in Hiroshima Prefecture has released the 2024 edition of the "Hiroshima Report," which independently evaluates countries' nuclear disarmament efforts. The report, published every year since 2013, marks its 13th edition and is intended for use at international conferences and by research institutions. The Hiroshima Organization for Global Peace (HOPe) headed by Hiroshima Gov. Hidehiko Yuzaki commissioned The Japan Institute of International Affairs based in Tokyo for the project, in which around 20 researchers and nongovernmental group members evaluated 34 countries including nuclear powers on 78 items in three areas: nuclear disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation and nuclear security. The report is available in both Japanese and English. The latest edition released April 18 analyzes that, "Amid Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine and escalating regional tensions, the risks of nuclear weapons use has been growing." While mentioning the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations (Nihon Hidankyo), the report states that "efforts to prevent the further deterioration of the nuclear situation were unsuccessful." According to the report, the estimated total number of nuclear weapons in the world as of January 2024 was 12,121. While the global stockpile is gradually decreasing, countries such as China, India and Pakistan are increasing their arsenals. Among the five major nuclear-weapon states, the nuclear disarmament rankings were, from highest to lowest, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, China and Russia -- unchanged from the previous year. Regarding China, which is believed to possess around 500 nuclear warheads, the report notes that it is "the only NWS (nuclear-weapon state) that has not implemented substantial nuclear disarmament measures." Touching on the fact that the pace of increase has been accelerating, the report states that China "would possess over 1,000 operational nuclear weapons within the next decade." Russia, ranked lowest, was criticized for its ongoing invasion of Ukraine and repeated nuclear threats. The report says Moscow "is estimated to possess around 5,600 nuclear warheads and has been actively modernizing its ICBMs (intercontinental ballistic missiles)." On Israel, which continues military operations in the Gaza Strip, the report states: "Israel is believed to possess around 90 nuclear warheads but has consistently maintained a policy of 'nuclear opacity,'" and "there are many uncertainties surrounding its nuclear capabilities and posture." The report calls out Japan for its non-signatory status to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons and states that the country "has increased its reliance on extended nuclear deterrence." Hiroshima Gov. Yuzaki told a press conference April 18, "The Nobel Peace Prize was a remarkable achievement that raised international momentum toward nuclear abolition. However, there has been little progress in nuclear disarmament. The Japanese government is urged to reiterate the inhumane nature of nuclear weapons." (Japanese original by Satoshi Kawahara, Hiroshima Bureau)
Associated Press
21-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
UNITAR Sea and Human Security 2024 Participants Poised to Drive Positive Change after Completing the Training Programme
Fifty agents of change from 18 Asia-Pacific countries graduated from the UNITAR 'Leaders for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific: Sea and Human Security' training programme on 21 February 2025. 21 February, 2025 - Tokyo, Japan - This marks the completion of the programme's third and final phase – a 12-day in-person workshop in Japan from 10 to 21 February. The workshop was designed to strengthen participants' capacities and foster a robust regional network to enhance local resilience against sea and human security challenges across the Indo-Pacific. The programme was generously supported by the Government and People of Japan. Workshop Highlights Over the 12 days, the participants visited Awaji Island, Hiroshima, Chiba, and Tokyo, engaging in interactive expert-led lectures, workshops and study tours. They gained in-depth knowledge of marine resource management, sustainable fisheries and agriculture, ocean conservation, coastal resource management, wastewater treatment and disaster risk reduction. On the final day, participants presented their evidence-based policy briefs, which envision actionable solutions to pressing sea and human security issues in the Indo-Pacific. The workshop concluded with a certification ceremony and a public event to share the programme's outcomes. This event, ' Ways Forward for Ocean Action in the Indo-Pacific ', featured keynote speeches, presentations of the policy briefs and panel discussions to foster public dialogue on ocean security. Awaji Island Sessions (10 -12 February) On Awaji Island, participants joined interactive lectures and field activities designed by UNITAR in collaboration with Pasona Group Inc., with topics including sustainable fisheries and agriculture, water security, microplastics, waste management, and ocean conservation. With the guidance of specialists, participants refined evidence-based group policy briefs that aim to address existing gaps in sea and human security in the region. 'At WMI, despite being a startup, their focus extends beyond business; they are also committed to education, using biodegradable materials to teach the younger generation about sustainability.' －Yuri Pratama Widiyana, UNITAR Training Participant （Indonesia ） Hiroshima Sessions (13 – 18 February) The group travelled to Hiroshima, where they explored the city's legacy of peace at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph for the Atomic Bomb Victims. Participants also paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Hiroshima Prefecture, Mr. Hidehiko Yuzaki, engaging in a productive dialogue about marine plastics, sustainable aquaculture, and sustainable tourism. Lectures in Hiroshima focused on coastal resource management and conservation. Participants visited the Hiroshima City Fisheries Promotion Center and Inokuchi Fisheries Cooperative Association to learn about seaweed farming, the 6th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters and Hiroshima Port to observe Coast Guard operations, and the Hiroshima City West Water Recycling Center to understand wastewater management. ' After attending sessions on coastal management and others, I realized there is a need to better connect land use planning with marine use planning. Instead of allowing water to flow into the ocean unused, it could be redirected to support agricultural irrigation.' – Mary Enya Tegavota, participant, Solomon Islands Sessions in Chiba and Tokyo (19 – 21 February) The final leg of the journey began on 19 February in Chiba, where participants learned from lectures and study tours on environmental and disaster management, disaster risk reduction for coastal areas and coastal protection. In Tokyo, they paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. Mr. MATSUMOTO Hisashi, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs welcomed the participants who shared their takeaways from the programme and how they would translate lessons learned to make a meaningful impact on their communities and countries. The study tour included a visit to Arakawa Lockgate and Kasai Rinkai Park where participants explored strategies for urban flood prevention, coastal protection infrastructure, and green-grey infrastructure complementation for sustainable coastlines. Final Presentations and Public Event On the final day, participants presented their policy briefs in groups, on topics such as the region's Deep Sea Mining, decarbonization in the maritime industry, Community-Based Marine Protected Areas etc., highlighting the importance to address key gaps in sea and human security. The presentations were followed by a certification ceremony, where Chisa Mikami, Head of UNITAR Hiroshima Office, commended participants for their dedication and creativity to drive meaningful change in their communities. 'The ideas [you] generated, the policies examined, and the connections formed have proved your commitment to excellence. You leave this workshop not just with new knowledge, but with the tools, networks and inspiration to make a difference in your respective fields.' －Chisa Mikami, Head of UNITAR Hiroshima Office The public event, ' Ways Forward for Ocean Action in the Indo-Pacific ', was held at the United Nations University in Tokyo. welcoming both in-person and online participation. The event hosted a dialogue on current trends and actionable solutions to enhance sea and human security in the Indo-Pacific. Mr. ANDO Shigemi, Director, Global Issues Cooperation Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan also delivered an opening remark, congratulating the participants on reaching the final day of the training and encouraging them to confidently present their proposed solutions to sea and human security challenges at this opportunity. Notably, Former Prime Minister of Japan, KISHIDA Fumio, delivered a special video message for the participants in the training workshop, emphasizing the significance of this training programme which addresses critical issues facing today's world. Underscoring the Shimanami Collective programme's spirit to bridging diverse cultures, ideas, and people, he stated: 'I hope that you will take the knowledge you have gained here back to your home countries and expand upon it while contributing to a sustainable future as a bridge between Japan and your respective nations.' – Former Prime Minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida As a keynote speaker, Mr. Keita Furukawa, President of the Association for Shore Environment Creation and Technical Session Chair at Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA), delivered a thought-provoking lecture emphasizing the need to integrate economic, social, and environmental dimensions of security and sustainability to effectively address sea and human security challenges in the Indo-Pacific. In the policy brief presentations, selected participant groups shared their analyses of the gaps in sea and human security and proposed actionable solutions. A panel discussion followed, featuring practitioners from Asia and Pacific Island countries. They exchanged views and insights on pressing sea and human security issues in the region, and discussed how we can take actions in making positive changes both within their respective communities and through strengthening collaboration. About the Leaders for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific: Sea and Human Security Programme 'The Leaders for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific: Sea and Human Security' training programme (June 2024 to February 2025) aims to provide participants with the skills and knowledge to enhance climate, social, economic, food and maritime security and to establish a coordination mechanism across the Indo-Pacific. It is implemented by UNITAR and funded by the Government and People of Japan. For more information about the programme, please visit the programme website: The Leaders for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific: Sea and Human Security UNITAR expresses its sincere gratitude to the Government and People of Japan for their generous support of this programme. Deep appreciation is also extended to the experts, partner organizations, and all relevant stakeholders whose contributions were instrumental in making this programme a success. About UNITAR The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is a dedicated training arm of the United Nations. In 2023, UNITAR trained over 540,000 learners around the world to support their actions for a better future. UNITAR has a global presence, with offices in Geneva, Hiroshima, New York and Bonn and networks around the world. Find out more at For inquiries, please contact: Parkpoom Kuanvinit, UNITAR Hiroshima Office ( [email protected]) Facebook: @ X: @UNITARHiroshima YouTube: UNITAR Hiroshima LinkedIn: UNITAR Division for Prosperity Instagram: @unitardivision4prosperity TikTok: @unitarprosperitydivision Website: Media Contact Company Name: UNITAR Country: Japan
