Unfortunately, Chernobyl’s radioactive waste has a lifespan far longer than most people’s memories. In the years following the meltdown, the world moved on, forgetting all too quickly the horrifying scenes of destruction that held them spellbound in 1986.
But although they are now forgotten, millions of people continue to suffer the after-effects of the biggest nuclear disaster in history. And those who suffer the most are the children, who are especially vulnerable to the devastating effects of radioactivity and toxicity and poverty. Birth defects have increased by 200 percent in affected areas, and congenital deformities have increased by 250 percent. Some forms of cancer have increased by a staggering 2,400 percent! Meanwhile, the ongoing economic devastation in the affected areas prevents many of these sick children from receiving even basic medical attention.
The tragedy of Chernobyl is not over, and it is more important than ever to bring the news to the rest of the world that these children need our help now.
That is why CCI has made it a priority to build awareness through education, high-profile public speaking engagements, and the production of books and documentaries about the ongoing crisis.
Education
We have visited hundreds of schools in Ireland, delivering presentations to students on the Chernobyl disaster, its ongoing legacy, and the benefits of using alternative power sources. We have also developed information packs for high-school teachers and a resource pack for primary-school teachers, to enable them to educate their students about the facts and history of Chernobyl, the effects of radiation, and the benefits of using alternative energy sources. To arrange a presentation for your school, or to order information kits and resource packs, please email us at info@chernobyl-international.com.
Public speaking and consultation
CCI founder, Adi Roche, has become one the foremost authorities on the impact of the Chernobyl disaster, as well as a passionate advocate for the rights of those affected by its terrible legacy. She has been the keynote speaker at the 1994 UNESCO Conference on Chernobyl and the 2003 launch of the United Nations International Chernobyl Research and Information Network (ICRIN) Implementation Plan. She also provides ongoing consultation to the United Nations to help them engage the international community in relief efforts.
Books and documentaries
As part of CCI’s efforts to reach a wider audience with the story of Chernobyl’s forgotten children, Adi Roche developed and co-produced with board director, Ali Hewson, a multi-award-winning documentary on the effects of Chernobyl: “Black Wind, White Land - Living with Chernobyl.”
Roche also researched, planned and co-produced “Chernobyl Heart,” which received an Academy Award in the Best Short Documentary category. Most recently, Roche collaborated with Jim Fahy, Western Editor of RTE Galway, Ireland to produce an hour-long RTE Documentary, “The Children Beyond Chernobyl,” highlighting CCI’s efforts in Belarus. Roche has also authored two bestselling books, “The Children of Chernobyl,” published in 1996, and “Chernobyl Heart – 20 years on,” published in 2006.