Zwickau is setting an example: Raise flags against nuclear wars!

Zwickau is setting an example: Raise flags against nuclear wars!

On July 4, 2025, many cities around the world will commemorate one of the darkest chapters in human history. 80 years ago, on August 6 and August 9, 1945, the first and so far only atomic bombs were used in the war in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. These devastating attacks resulted in an estimated 100,000 immediate deaths, mostly among civilians and forced laborers. By the end of 1945, a further 130,000 people had died from devastating consequences such as radiation sickness and injuries. This shockwave of suffering and death prompted many survivors, known as hibakusha, to warn of the catastrophic consequences of the use of nuclear weapons. The experiences from these tragedies continue to call for nuclear disarmament and peaceful coexistence to this day.

In this context, a significant campaign will start in Germany on July 8, 2025: over 600 cities will raise the flag of the “Mayors for Peace” initiative. This network, founded in 1982 by the mayor of Hiroshima, pursues a clear vision: the abolition of nuclear weapons and the promotion of peace and international understanding. The network has around 900 member cities in Germany, and Zwickau is proud to be part of this global movement since the city council resolution of March 31, 2022. The message of disarmament and peace is also being promoted in Hanover, where Mayor Belit Onay is active as vice president of the network. On July 8, a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice from 1996 will also be recalled, which states that the threat and use of nuclear weapons violates international law.

Global situation of nuclear weapons

While many cities are committed to peace, our disarmament efforts face challenges. The Stockholm peace research institute SIPRI estimates that there are around 12,241 nuclear warheads worldwide and that all nine nuclear powers are in the process of modernizing their arsenals. Of particular concern is the rapid growth of China's nuclear arsenal. The New START Treaty, which limits U.S. and Russian strategic nuclear weapons, is set to expire early next year with no sign of an extension or replacement. This could fuel a new nuclear arms race, which could have serious consequences in a world of increasing tensions. “Nuclear deterrence leads to even more uncertainty in an uncertain world,” emphasizes Onay, who is working with other cities to find a peaceful solution.

Remembering the past

Flag Day on July 8 is not just a gesture; it is an important sign. Particularly in today's times when old and new conflicts collide, this action serves as a reminder of humanity's responsibility to reject nuclear weapons and promote peace. Even 80 years after the tragic events in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the call for disarmament remains relevant. The memory of the victims is kept alive in the memorials of both cities, and the voices of the survivors continue to call for humanity and responsibility towards future generations.

By remembering this past and raising the flag for peace, we are sending a strong message for a world without nuclear weapons. It is up to us to carry this message forward and actively fight for a disarmed and peaceful future. More than 8,480 cities in 166 countries are ready to follow this path with us - will we also be part of it?