Humanitarian Efforts and Global Citizenship

Japanese troops were deployed in
 post-war Iraq in January 2004.

Japan's humanitarian assistance began when the government in Japan funded UN relief work for Palestinian refugees, in 1953. Ever since then, Japan has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts and providing vast amounts of assistance worldwide.The country has provided assistance in many forms such financial aid, emergency supplies and personnel, primarily in the response of natural disasters. It was only in 1992 that Japan began participating and providing assistance for conflict-related emergencies. This is worth being noted as legally, these are very distinct.

Nonetheless, Japan is beginning to play more prominent roles in post-conflict environments.

At the 71st UN General Assembly, Prime Minister Abe announced Japan would contribute 2.8 billion US dollars, from 2016 to 2018, in humanitarian and self-reliance assistance to refugees and migrants. He also promised support to host countries and communities.

Legal Framework of Japan's Humanitarian Efforts

In 1987, the Law Concerning the Dispatch of Japan Disaster Relief Teams (JDR Law) was introduced. This law provides a comprehensive approach to disaster relief internationally, but limits these efforts towards natural disaster, and man-made disaster, exempting those arisen from conflict. JDR teams have been sent all over the world to major disaster areas, mainly in developing countries. These teams are comprised of rescue worker and experts in medicine and disaster response and reconstruction. They go to carry out rescue operations, provide medical assistance and undertake rehabilitation efforts.