Japanese organization Nihon Hidankyo, comprised of survivors of the U.S. atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their activism against nuclear weapons. The Norwegian Nobel Committee recognized their efforts to cultivate hope and peace despite the physical and emotional suffering they endured. The committee emphasized the importance of upholding the taboo against the use of nuclear weapons amidst ongoing conflicts worldwide.
This award comes at a time when the threat of nuclear weapons is once again at the forefront, with conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Sudan. The committee acknowledged the pressure that these threats pose on international norms and highlighted the need to maintain a strong taboo against the use of nuclear weapons for the benefit of all humanity.
The Nobel Peace Prize, which carries a cash award of 11 million Swedish kronor ($1 million), was established by Alfred Nobel to recognize efforts for fraternity between nations, reduction of standing armies, and promotion of peace congresses. In recent years, the prize has been awarded to individuals and organizations advocating for human rights, democracy, and disarmament.
Despite some speculation that the prize would not be awarded this year due to ongoing conflicts, the Norwegian Nobel Committee has chosen to honor Nihon Hidankyo for their dedicated activism against nuclear weapons. The Nobel season will conclude with the announcement of the winner of the economics prize on Monday.
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