Prior to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference in 2005, a march through Manhattan to Central Park on the eve of the Conference drew 40,000 persons who formed a human peace symbol.

Nearly 2,000 NGO's were on hand at various stages of the Conference, the largest representation ever.

Mayors for Peace, led by Mayor Tadatoshi Akiba of Hiroshima sent a delegation of 100 Mayors and representatives of cities.

While the governments wrangled for 17 days over an agenda, NGOs organised educational events and presented passionate statements.