Media quotes

One of the leading voices in the movement against these tests was the renowned poet Olzhas Suleimenov. He led a truly historic movement against nuclear testing, particularly after illegal gas leaks occurred in Chagan strategic airbase  [in Semiplatinsk],” said Indira Weavor, peace activist and QNFC member.

“The Nevada-Semipalatinsk international anti-nuclear movement became the fastest-growing initiative in the world. It united people across nations and continents. The impact of this movement is, was and still is of huge historic significance,” she added.

It directly prevented 11 of the 18 planned tests in 1989, the final of which occurred in October of that year. The Semipalatinsk test site closed on Aug.29, 1991.

“I was born in 1977. I am one of three sisters, and I consider myself fortunate that I have not experienced any major health issues—though I have never undergone specific medical testing for radiation exposure. As a mother of two boys, I often wonder how this legacy might affect my children,” she said, noting the need for continued research, awareness and international commitment to nuclear disarmament to prevent future generations from bearing similar uncertainties.