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Philosopher Koichiro Kokubun, a professor at Tokyo University, critically examines the profound meaning of 'evacuation' and the fading voices of victims, 15 years after the Fukushima nuclear disaster. He highlights that the accident transcended mere destruction, rendering certain areas uninhabitable, and underscores the vital importance of listening to the narratives of evacuees.

Reinterpreting 'Evacuation' 15 Years After Fukushima

Marking the 15th anniversary of the Tokyo Electric Power Company Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident, philosopher Koichiro Kokubun, a professor at Tokyo University, explored the meaning of 'evacuation' and the realities faced by Fukushima evacuees. Kokubun pointed out that the term 'evacuation' extends beyond simply moving away from a disaster; the nuclear accident represents an event that far surpasses the meaning human imagination has attributed to it. He emphasized that while destruction from typical disasters brings sorrow but leaves room for new beginnings, a nuclear accident fundamentally prevents habitation in a specific area.

Neglecting Evacuees' Voices and the Risk of Being 'Forgotten'

Kokubun expressed concern that the voices of Fukushima evacuees are increasingly being forgotten by society. He stressed the importance of listening to the stories of over 23,410 evacuees dispersed across the country. His understanding deepened significantly after meeting evacuees in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, who had read his book, "Philosophy in the Atomic Age." Through conversations with individuals like Yaeko Hantani and Kazuko Okomine, he directly heard about their despair over their uninhabitable hometowns and the suffering of living in a changed environment.

A Tragedy Beyond 'Evacuation': The Reality of Fukushima

Kokubun explained that the nuclear accident is a fundamentally different tragedy, as it not only caused destruction but also rendered land uninhabitable. This situation severely restricts human activity and obliterates past memories and future possibilities. He noted that his own father, originally from Fukushima, expressed a deep sense of loss over the potential disappearance of his hometown, raising fundamental questions about the tragedy's impact on society. Kokubun warned that over time, interest in Fukushima might diminish to mere information or knowledge, leading to a loss of empathy for the real suffering and experiences of the victims. He strongly asserted that discussing nuclear power without truly listening to the voices of those who have endured 15 years of hardship is unacceptable.

*Source: YouTube: Kyodo News (2026-04-06)*

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