Tokyo — Emperor Naruhito of Japan celebrated his 65th birthday on Sunday, using the occasion to emphasize the significance of educating younger generations about the horrors of World War II. He expressed his commitment to efforts aimed at ensuring that the lessons of history are not forgotten, especially in light of the 80th anniversary of the war’s conclusion this year.
In a pre-recorded news conference, Naruhito remarked, “As the memory of the war fades away, it is crucial that the tragic experiences and histories be shared with those who are unaware of the war.” He noted that many who lived through the conflicts and their aftermath are aging, making it increasingly challenging for the younger population to hear their personal accounts.
On the occasion of his birthday, Naruhito, joined by his wife, Empress Masako, their daughter, Princess Aiko, and some relatives of his younger brother, greeted well-wishers from the balcony of the palace. That evening, a formal banquet held at the palace was planned in honor of his birthday.
Naruhito recalled that the war was fought under the watch of his grandfather, Emperor Hirohito. He and Empress Masako, both born after the war ended, have absorbed their parents’ narratives about wartime experiences and aspirations for peace. He shared that his father, Akihito, who abdicated in 2019, was dedicated to making reparations for the wartime actions, and he intends to continue this legacy.
The Emperor’s concerns are particularly relevant to many survivors of the American atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which occurred in August 1945. These survivors, known as hibakusha, have expressed alarm over the slow progress towards nuclear disarmament and the increasing reliance on nuclear deterrence. They hope that the recognition of their organization, Nihon Hidankyo, with the Nobel Peace Prize for their long-standing nuclear disarmament advocacy could raise awareness among the youth.
This year, Naruhito and Empress Masako are expected to visit the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki to honor the memory of those who lost their lives in the bombings, as well as Okinawa, a location that witnessed some of the war’s most brutal battles.
