Since nuclear weapons testing began on July 16,1945, nearly 2,000 have taken place. In the early days of nuclear testing the effects on human life were not taken into consideration. This also rang true to the effects on the environment; early testers put little thought into possible harm nuclear testing could have on the environment.

Time has revealed the harmful and devastating effects of nuclear weapons testing, particularly in unstable conditions. It is of extreme importance to recognize the dangers of nuclear weapons testing as the damage they cause occurs on a global scale.

The United Nations General Assembly established 29 August as the International Day against Nuclear Tests. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the harmful effects of this kind of testing. The Day was established with the intent to encourage nations, organizations, government officials, and individuals to advocate for the ban of this kind of testing.

Since the U.N. began recognizing this day, many governmental and civil movements helped move forward the banning of nuclear weapons testing. The UN hopes that nuclear weapons testing will one day be completely put to an end. Until this is realized, this day needs to be observed as steps still need to be taken in promoting a peaceful and safe world free of nuclear weapons testing.