International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day

International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day History

International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day remembers the explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in 1986. A routine shut down was to be conducted however, due to structural errors with the reactor, a surge was created which resulted in one of the world’s largest chemical explosions. The explosion released radiation over many parts of the Soviet Union. According to the United Nations, over 8 million people were exposed to radiation. Today, radiation still threatens surrounding areas and communities. With the help of 45 donor nations and more than $2 billion, a reinforced safety confinement was placed over the old shelter in 2019.

International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day was established in 2016 by the UN General Assembly. It is observed annually on April 26th.