UN Secretary-General makes statement on 35th anniversary of Chornobyl disaster

His statement was published on the UN website on Monday, April 26.

“This anniversary is an occasion to recognize the recovery efforts led by the Governments of Belarus, the Russian Federation, and Ukraine, and the work of scientists who sifted through the evidence to provide important analysis that has informed emergency planning and reduced risks,” Guterres said.

He also recalled that the suffering of the people affected by the Chornobyl disaster "must not be forgotten."

Guterres added that since 1986, the United Nations had helped to address the needs of people in the areas surrounding Chornobyl. The number of small- and medium-sized businesses operating in areas directly affected by the disaster has risen from 2,000 in 2002 to 37,000 today.

“Thousands of local residents, community leaders and doctors have been trained on health risks and promoting healthy lifestyles,” he stressed.

In addition, the UN secretary-general emphasized the importance of cooperation between governments and academics, civil society and others to eliminate the consequences of the accident in today's conditions.

International Chornobyl Disaster Remembrance Day is marked on April 26.

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