Fukushima Nuclear Accident 15th Anniversary - Dr. Maxime Polleri
13 January 2026
Did you know that this year marks the 15th Anniversary of the Fukushima Nuclear Accident?
On March 11, 2011, Japan and its people were severely impacted by the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. The natural disaster caused extensive displacement of people across Japan, especially in the Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima Prefectures, and long lasting environmental, ecological, and economic impacts.
Radioactive Governance: The Politics of Revitalization in Post-Fukushima Japan by Dr. Maxime Polleri examines how Japan responded to the disaster. Unlike stories about Hiroshima or Chernobyl that focus on suffering and long-term harm, the Japanese government emphasized that radiation risks were limited, encouraged evacuees to return home, restarted nuclear power plants, and promoted resilience in the face of hardship. This approach often conflicted with the concerns of residents who feared ongoing health risks and wanted to relocate permanently.
The book shows how Fukushima came to be framed as a story of recovery and resilience rather than one of victimization. It also highlights a shift away from secrecy toward a model where governments, international organizations, and citizens share responsibility in managing the aftermath of nuclear disasters.
The PTJC is pleased to welcome Dr. Maxime Polleri on March 11, 2026 in commemoration of the Nuclear Accident. Dr. Polleri is scheduled to give a Master Class/Skills Seminar to a select audience, as well as a Book Launch talk which is open to the general public.
Master Class/Skills Seminar
Date: March 11, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Place: University of Alberta, Telus 215 E
Registration: Register! by March 9, space limited
For: Graduate Students & Advanced Undergraduates
Book Talk
Date: March 11, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Place: University of Alberta, Telus 150
Registration: Not required
For: Everyone
Radioactive Governance: The Politics of Revitalization in Post-Fukushima Japan is available for purchase on NYU Press website and other book stores.