Selected participants of the Youth Leader Fund for a World without Nuclear Weapons (YLF) have commenced a week-long study visit to Japan. The visit, which began today, will see these young leaders from various countries (including Morocco) meeting with survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings. They will also host a youth-led conference during their stay.
The YLF programme, managed by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and funded by the Japanese government, aims to involve future leaders from both nuclear and non-nuclear states in the nuclear disarmament process. The initiative is designed to build their capacities and integrate their voices into the global conversation on disarmament.
The visit, supported by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) Hiroshima Office, seeks to highlight the devastating consequences of nuclear weapons and to preserve the legacy of Hiroshima and Nagasaki for future generations. Prime Minister Kishida is expected to welcome the participants via a video message.
This marks the first in-person gathering of YLF participants, following the programme's launch in December 2023. During their time in Japan, the young leaders will engage directly with the Hibakusha, survivors of the atomic bombings, and explore key sites like the Peace Memorial Parks in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Through these experiences, they aim to deepen their understanding of nuclear weapons' impact and build a network to advocate for a world free of such weapons.
The study tour will conclude with a conference organized by the participants, which will be attended by high-level representatives from the Japanese government, local officials, and various UN agencies. Following the visit, these young leaders will return to their communities to continue their advocacy, using the knowledge and skills gained from the programme.
The YLF programme is expected to continue until 2030, with additional training rounds planned to foster a global network of leaders committed to nuclear disarmament. The next phase of applications is anticipated to open in 2025.
