The plea came as nuclear facilities in both Ukraine and Iran were the subject of alarming direct and indirect attacks during recent conflicts.

Chernobyl Children International (CCI) chief executive Adi Roche, speaking at the unveiling of the ‘Chernobyl Mother’ statue, said those impacted by the 1986 disaster must never be forgotten.

“The ’Chernobyl Mother’ gives form to memory and compassion. It ensures that the voices and experiences of those affected are neither forgotten nor overlooked,” she said.

“This anniversary is not just a memorial for a disaster – it is a celebration of a miraculous Irish intervention.”

“We took a tragedy that occurred thousands of miles away and made its victims our own. We proved that while radiation lingers for centuries, and Chernobyl is forever, but the half-life of Irish kindness is infinite.”

Krystina Nikityonik (26) was raised in Belarus in the wake of the tragedy and revealed that the kindness of Irish people changed her life.

Because of the environmental damage caused by the nuclear accident, Krystina was born with disabilities and was placed in an orphanage.

However, she was supported by CCI who arranged for her to have life-altering surgeries in Ireland.

Krystina now works as a social media content creator and said she owes the life she lives to CCI and the kindness of Irish people.

“They fought for my right to live my life – they treated me as a human being. They did not only heal my body…they gave me love and dignity.”

CCI even arranged a foster family for Krystina so she could leave the orphanage.

“I am proof that love and hope works – that the kindness of people can save a life,” she stressed

‘Chernobyl Mother’ was created by Irish sculptor Sandra Bell.

It was formally unveiled by Lord Mayor of Cork Councillor Fergal Dennehy to mark the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

The unveiling forms part of a commemorative partnership between Cork City Council and Chernobyl Children International and took place at the city’s newly redeveloped Marina Park.

Over the past four decades, Ireland has sent over €110m worth of aid to regions impacted by the 1986 disaster.

“As well as remembering the countless lives lost and touched by the 1986 nuclear disaster, we reflect too on the countless lives touched and transformed by Adi Roche and her charity, Chernobyl Children International, and its army of volunteers and supporters,” Councillor Dennehy said.

“Her vision has brought light into the darkest of circumstances and Cork is immensely proud to stand with her and with all who continue this vital mission.”

“We in Cork City Council are proud to play our part in recognising and supporting the extraordinary humanitarian work that she continues to lead from Cork.”

Installed in a prominent public space by Cork Marina, ‘Chernobyl Mother’ aims to offer a focal point for reflection and education, encouraging dialogue on nuclear history, environmental responsibility and humanitarian action.

CCI is the only NGO in the world who are recognised by the United Nations to support the victims and survivors of Chernobyl, and the annual ‘United Nations Chernobyl Remembrance Day’ was ratified in 2016.