This year’s Nobel Peace Prize honors Nihon Hidankyo, the Japanese organization of atomic bomb survivors, known as hibakusha, who have dedicated decades to advocating against nuclear weapons.

As the average age of hibakusha reaches 85.6, their numbers dwindle, highlighting the urgency of passing on their experiences of the horrors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki to younger generations.

Terumi Tanaka, a 91-year-old survivor, expressed hope that the award would raise awareness about the nuclear threat and inspire youth to engage in activism, the Associated Press has reported.

Despite the Japanese government’s refusal to sign the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, a youth movement is emerging, with students pledging to continue the fight for nuclear disarmament.

Efforts are underway to document survivors’ stories, ensuring their messages endure even as they face declining membership and health issues.

Written by B.C. Begley