As announced on Friday, this year’s Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a Japanese organization of atomic bomb survivors. Their recognition underscores the devastating impact of nuclear weapons and the urgency of disarmament efforts. This town hall aims to explore Belgium’s role in contributing to the legacy of the nuclear booming survivors quest for a world free from nuclear threats.

We invite you to a town hall discussion titled "Belgium and the Bomb: Reimagining Nuclear Security." The discussion will take place on October 17, at 19.00h at the Commons Hub, Rue de la Madeleine 51, 1000 Brussels.

 In light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the war in Ukraine, the threat of nuclear conflict is more pressing than ever. This town hall is an opportunity for dialogue around the urgent need for nuclear disarmament and Belgium's role in shaping global nuclear policy. We will focus on the consequences of nuclear weapons use, what Belgium can do to reduce nuclear risks and discuss the role of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).

Speakers:

• Daniel Högsta, Deputy Director ICAN 
• Franziska Stärk, University of Hamburg
• Giorgio Macor, ICRC
• Floor Van den Eijnden, Red Cross Belgium
• Wannes Verstraete, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) 
• Naomi Zoka, Pax Christi Vlaanderen (moderator)

Following the panel, there will be a Q&A session and we hope for a lively debate. Participation is free, but we kindly ask you to let us know in advance to help us with planning.