International Day against Nuclear Tests

International Day against Nuclear Tests

International Day against Nuclear Tests is a global event aimed at promoting the cessation of all nuclear weapon test explosions. The day is observed to raise awareness about the effects of nuclear test explosions on the health and environment of people and communities, while also emphasizing the need for nuclear disarmament. A key aspect of the observance is to encourage governments, civil society organizations, and individuals worldwide to work collaboratively to ban nuclear testing and push for the ratifications of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).

The United Nations General Assembly declared the International Day against Nuclear Tests in 2009, following concerns about the enduring negative impact of nuclear testing, especially in areas such as Australia, which have experienced significant nuclear testing over decades. Between 1952 and 1963, Australia witnessed a series of nuclear tests conducted by the British government, resulting in long-term adverse health effects and environmental degradation, particularly for Indigenous Australian communities. In the years since, Australia has pursued a proactive role in advocating for a world free of nuclear weapons, becoming an early signatory of the CTBT in 1996 and a strong supporter of its aims and principles.

In Australia, International Day against Nuclear Tests is commemorated through various events and activities organized by anti-nuclear organizations, peace activists, and other civil society groups. These events often include public lectures, panel discussions, film screenings, educational workshops, and advocacy campaigns promoting nuclear disarmament. These activities aim to engage the broader Australian public and keep the momentum for nuclear disarmament alive. International Day against Nuclear Tests is observed annually on the 29th of August, serving as a powerful reminder of Australia's past experiences with nuclear testing and the ongoing need to work towards a nuclear-free world.

Facts about Nuclear Testing

• Over the past 6 decades, the United States, Russia, and France have carried out the most nuclear tests. They have conducted 1,032, 715, and 210 tests respectively.
• There are an estimated total of 16,400 nuclear weapons on Earth today.
• Russia and the United States currently possess the largest nuclear weapon stockpiles, accounting for approximately 90% of global nuclear weapons.
• Between 1945 and 1989, the Australian government was involved in monitoring more than 200 atmospheric nuclear tests conducted globally, particularly focusing on tests performed by the United States, United Kingdom, and France in the Pacific region.
• In total, 12 major nuclear tests and hundreds of minor trials, including those involving radioactive materials, were conducted in Australia. The last of these tests took place in 1963.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day against Nuclear Tests

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Attend the meeting held by the president of the UN General Assembly by either going to the event in person or watching the recorded webcast.
• Visit the Maralinga nuclear test site in South Australia. This is the site where the British conducted several nuclear tests in the 1950s and 1960s. Tourists can visit and learn about the history and effects of the testing.
• Learn more about the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA). ARPANSA is the government agency responsible for protecting the Australian people and the environment from the harmful effects of radiation. They also provide information on nuclear testing.