Most current medical students were just entering their teens when the Cold War ended. Many young people were only marginally aware of the profound fear that their parents felt for the future of their children in a world threatened by a nuclear holocaust. In 1991 the world heaved a collective sigh of relief that the danger seemed to be over that a nuclear war would end life on earth. Nothing seemed to be left but a mop-up operation to eliminate nuclear weapons. This mistaken impression meant the pressure was off the nuclear weapons states to disarm, and those governments quietly continued business as usual. Now, although the situation has become more unstable and dangerous because of the intransigence of the nuclear powers and the new threat of nuclear terrorism, it is possible for students to grow up unaware of the continuing risk of catastrophe.

IPPNW medical students have been determined to educate their peers about nuclear weapons and have framed the issue in a new and highly motivating way. They shine the spotlight on the legacy that all young people on the planet have received from their parents - a world awash in nuclear weapons. By framing the issue in this way, they engage the students in looking for solutions and becoming active in dialogue with decision makers in nuclear weapons states. The extensive teaching materials IPPNW students have developed; the houghtful seminars they offer and the experience they have gained in the dialogue process have been enthusiastically received in many countries. Travelling student leaders have made a powerful impression and led to new student involvement in many cities. In some places, the students are the mainstay of IPPNW, in others their activities have increased the involvement of the local physicians and, as a result, the interaction of IPPNW with government officials.

Reporters, especially those in television, are greatly attracted to medical students, who are seen as young, energetic, idealistic and articulate spokespeople. Medical students bring a message of hope and commitment that inspires others to take action to end the nuclear threat. In summary, the leadership of students is one of the great strengths of IPPNW today.