Review of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) Charter

The Government of Japan will undertake a major review of the Official Development Assistance Charter (ODA Charter, Cabinet Decision of June 1992), the core of Japan's ODA strategy, taking into account the changes in the domestic and international situation over the ten years since its formulation. The Government of Japan will carry out the review process while bringing in a wide range of voices from the public.

1. Background of review

In reviewing the ODA Charter it is necessary to take into account the situation surrounding Japan's ODA, which underwent changes such as below during the ten years after the formulation of the ODA Charter.

(1)	The advancement of the globalization made the issue of development of the developing country more important in the international arena. In particular, since the terrorist attacks in the United States on 11 September 2001, there has been greater international awareness of the possibility of poverty becoming hotbeds of terrorism, and the role of ODA is being reconsidered.
(2)	The international debate in development assistance has been evolving, with the appearance of the new concepts on sustainable development, poverty reduction and human security and the new area such as peace-building.
(3)	On the other hand, under the severe economic and fiscal conditions, Japan needs to make further efforts to ensure that its implementation of ODA is strategic, transparent and efficient.
(4)	Additionally, as participation in ODA further diversifies, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), volunteers, local government bodies and others, and public interest in ODA increases, yet broader public participation in the implementation of ODA is required.

2. Proceeding

(1)	A draft will be developed in coordination with relevant ministries and agencies through the ODA-Related Ministry and Agency Liaison Council in the Government.
(2)	While the review will be based on discussions of the Board on Comprehensive ODA Strategy, deliberations will also involve exhaustive discussion with wide public participation including hearings from implementing organizations, NGOs and the business community and public comments procedures.
(3)	The final conclusions will be drawn around by the middle of 2003, through the deliberations of the Council of Overseas Economic Cooperation-Related Ministers.