Advocating for a Nuclear-Free Future: Young Changemakers’ Educational Journey in Kazakhstan
Twenty young changemakers from Kazakhstan and Germany recently embarked on an educational journey through Kazakhstan to delve into the country’s nuclear past, engage with policymakers, and connect with affected communities. Organized by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in Kazakhstan, ICAN Germany, and Kazakhstan’s STOP youth initiative, the week-long tour aimed to deepen understanding of nuclear non-proliferation and highlight the voices of those impacted.
The group visited ministerial halls in Astana, activists in Almaty, and nuclear-affected communities in Semei, the former site of the Soviet-run nuclear test site. The Semipalatinsk nuclear test site saw 456 nuclear tests conducted between 1949 and 1989, with detrimental effects on approximately 1.5 million people, including increased cancer rates and other health issues.
In Astana, the group met with government officials who shed light on Kazakhstan’s nuclear history and its commitment to global non-proliferation efforts. Discussions included potential changes to the law on citizens affected by nuclear tests and comparing compensation systems with the United States model. The tour also included interactions with nuclear survivors in Semei and Astana, providing a firsthand look at the enduring impact of nuclear testing.
In Almaty, the group engaged with Kazakh activists and experts, exploring the representation of affected communities in the media and screening a documentary on the effects of nuclear tests. Reflecting on the tour, participants emphasized the importance of intergenerational dialogue, capacity building for activists, and amplifying the voices of nuclear-affected communities on the international stage.
Lessons learned from the tour underscored the significance of educating young people on nuclear disarmament and amplifying the voices of those affected by nuclear testing. The diverse range of experiences and interactions on the tour left a lasting impact on participants, highlighting the importance of fostering connections and understanding the human impact of nuclear proliferation.
