Thank you for visiting the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW) World Congress 2025 in Nagasaki website. On behalf of JPPNW, I am delighted to welcome participants from around the globe to Nagasaki.
Nagasaki is where the second atomic bomb in human history was dropped on August 9, 1945, and has suffered the destructiveness and tragedy of nuclear weapons alongside Hiroshima. The voices of hibakusha (atomic bomb survivors) from these cities have for decades shaped the global understanding of the immense human cost of nuclear weapons, contributing to the establishment of the “nuclear taboo.” Their relentless advocacy has also led to the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize being awarded to Nihon Hidankyo (the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations).
This 2025 World Congress, held 80 years after the atomic bombings, will be an extremely valuable opportunity to hear directly from survivors. Holding the World Congress in Nagasaki is a significant opportunity to reacknowledge the inhumanity of nuclear weapons and take a fresh step together toward a world without them.
The theme of this World Congress is “A World Without Nuclear Weapons – Nagasaki as the last A-Bombed City.” Amid heightened global tensions and persistent risks of nuclear weapon use, we aim to reaffirm our unwavering resolve to prevent any future use of nuclear weapons and to ensure that Nagasaki remains the last city to endure such devastation. We hope to share this determination with people worldwide.
The road to the abolition of nuclear weapons remains one of the most difficult challenges among a multitude of major global issues, including the climate crisis and the arms race. Yet, I believe that by uniting physicians, healthcare professionals, researchers, and all who aspire for peace, we can create a brighter future. In December 2024, the East Asia Pacific Regional Conference in Melbourne included discussion of the program for the World Congress, advancing preparations on a regional basis. Our goal is to translate these preparations into concrete action plans at the Congress.
This Congress will focus on advancing the movement to abolish nuclear weapons while addressing its challenges. It will serve as a platform to discuss the medical and scientific impacts of nuclear weapons and to develop actionable plans alongside the younger generation. We particularly look forward to engaging youth through initiatives like bike tours, fostering collaboration, and empowering them to deliver a strong message for future generations.
The success of this World Congress depends on the participation and cooperation of every one of you. In the special location that is Nagasaki, let us learn together, talk to each other, and take action. My hope is that this World Congress will spark new networks and be an opportunity to build robust solidarity for peace.
I would like to conclude by expressing my profound gratitude to all those involved in the preparations for this Congress, as well as to everyone planning to attend. I am looking forward to meeting you in Nagasaki.
