Executive Summary on the Study on Human Resources Development in International Cooperation for Peace

1. Purpose and Objective of this Study

The objective of this Study was to broadly examine the mechanism of human resources development essential for Japan in order to provide personnel contribution on various issues concerning international cooperation for peace (conflict prevention, recurrence prevention, emergency humanitarian assistance, reconstruction and development assistance and others). The examination was based on the recommendations submitted by the "Advisory Group on International Cooperation for Peace (AGICP)" (chaired by former Under-secretary General of the United Nations, Mr. Yasushi Akashi) directed by Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasuo Fukuda which was announced at the end of 2002.

The Study also raised as its objective the compilation of an "Action Plan" which includes concrete measures that Government to be implemented according to present laws, regulations and budget. Upon compilation of the Plan, considerations were made with advice taken from the advisory group (differed from AGICP, see Note) on the experience, skills and quality required of human resources that are in need of development, the specific methods of development, and on the prompt and efficient dispatch system of human resources including utilization of human resources database.

(Note) Members of the advisory group for the Study

Mr. Shunichiro Asaba (Deputy Representative, UNHCR Regional Representation in Japan)
Mr. Mitsutoyo Ikeda (Manager, International Programs/Relief, World Vision Japan)
Mr. Ken Inoue (Director, Industry Department, Asian Productivity Organization)
Mr. Atsushi Kusano (Professor, Faculty of Policy Management, Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University)
Mr. Chimaki Kurokawa (Advisor, Japan Platform)
Mr. Akihiko Tanaka (Director, Professor of International Politics, Institute of Oriental Culture, University of Tokyo)
Ms. Akiko Yamanaka (Visiting Professor, United Nations University)
Ms. Akiko Yuge (Director, UNDP Tokyo Office)
Mr. Yozo Yokota (Professor of Law, Chuo University Law School)

2. Schedule

(1) First meeting: October 6, 2003 "Comprehensive discussion on human resources that is required"

(2) Second meeting: November 14, 2003 "Securing of human resources," "Fostering of human resources"

(3) Third meeting: January 21, 2004 "Utilization of human resources," wrap-up discussion

(4) Fourth and the last meeting: April 23, 2004 "Action Plan" adopted

3. Discussion Results

The Government has compiled and announced an "Action Plan" that is to be implemented within the scope of existing laws, regulations and budget, taking into consideration the advice and suggestions from the advisory group.

The advisory group was submitted its own "Recommendation", which was announced concurrently with the "Action Plan".