Europe - Japan Dialogue

‘Japan’s Foreign Policy on Human Security’

‘Human Security’ is a relatively new concept advocated by the United Nations Development Programme in 1994. However, it has become the key concept guiding Japan’s foreign policy. For example, Japan’s Official Development Charter adopted in 2003 states:

‘In order to address direct threats to individuals such as conflicts, disasters, infectious diseases, it is important not only to consider the global, regional and national perspectives, but also to consider the perspective of human security, which focuses on individuals. Accordingly, Japan will implement ODA to strengthen the capacity of human development. To ensure that human dignity is maintained at all stages, from the conflict stage to the reconstruction and developmental stages, Japan will extend assistance for the protection and empowerment of individuals.’

After graduating from the Faculty of Law, The University of Tokyo, Mr Kenichi Suganuma joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1978. His previous postings include, among others, Director, International Energy Division, Economic Affairs Bureau; Director, OECD Division, Economic Affairs Bureau; Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Japan to the International Organisation in Vienna; Minister, Embassy of Japan in Russia; Minister, Embassy of Japan in Singapore; Deputy Assistant Vice-Minister (Crisis Management), and Deputy Director-General, Consul Affairs Bureau. Since 1997, Mr Suganuma has been Consul General of Japan in Edinburgh.

The seminar will be chaired by Professor Steve Beaumont, Vice-Principal for Research & Enterprise, University of Glasgow.

The Europe-Japan Dialogue series is supported by, Toshiba International Foundation and The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation, and is organised by the Europe-Japan Centre, Research & Enterprise, University of Glasgow.