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Japan Centers

Page history last edited by Jeff Plantilla 6 months ago

Japan Centers

If your center is not in this list and you want to be added, please contact HURIGHTS OSAKA and we will assist you.

 

 

 


 

 

Asia-Japan Women's Resource Center (AJWRC)

 

Year Established: 1995

 

Short Historical Background

 

The history of the AJWRC goes back to the Asian Women’s Association (AWA) which was founded in 1977 by a group of Japanese women who organized protest actions against sex tours of Japanese men to the neighboring Asian countries. As a women’s movement not to take part in Japan’s military and economic domination over other Asian countries, the AWA actively took up vital issues for women in Japan and in Asia, including sex tourism and trafficking, women and development, migration, nationalism, war and militarization, and violence against women.

In order to strengthen AWA’s organizational capacity to actively engage in the global feminist movements, the AJWRC was founded in December 1994 as a NGO with ECOSOC consultative status by the late Yayori Matsui, the renowned feminist activist and journalist. Since this time, the AJWRC has been actively working to advocate for women’s rights and social justice in wide range of issues. It is closely working with its sister organizations as well as other women’s groups and civil groups in Japan and abroad.

Vision and Mission

 

Our Vision

The 20th Century of continued wars and violence has passed. Yet we are facing no smaller challenges of violence and injustice today. Transnational feminist movements have been challenging social structures that lead to violence and suppression. Adopting feminist perspective that links gender, North-South relations and the environment, the AJWRC works to end all forms of violence and discrimination against women, toward democratic Japanese society based on respect for human rights and gender equality, and toward a fair and sustainable global society.

Our Mission

Ending Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination

In order to end all forms of gender-based violence, including sexual violence under armed conflicts and around military bases, trafficking and sexual exploitation, domestic violence, and sexual harassment, we address gender biases and multiple discriminations, challenging the conventional concept of peace and security.


Achieving Just and Sustainable Society

Male-biased and growth-oriented development policy has led to increasing inequality, poverty and environmental degradation. We resist neoliberal globalization and challenge conventional politico-economic structures that devalue women’s labour and reproductive economy.


Alternative Politics and Empowerment of Women

Toward an alternative politics based on human rights and gender equality, we examine legal and political institutions, history, education, and technologies through a feminist lens, and promote empowerment and networking of women.

 

Activities

 

Read & Learn

AJWRC promotes information sharing and networking of women’s movements in Japan and in the world, through publishing and material production, disseminating information with ICT and women’s information reference services.

 

Take Action

AJWRC provides educational opportunities for general public to understand various issues with gender perspectives, and training opportunities for women to be better equipped with necessary skills and knowledge for effective activities.
Seminars and workshops

AJWRC organizes variety of seminars and workshops on various issues such as: violence against women, nationalism, economic issues, women’s movements in other parts of the world, feminist English, use of ICT, etc.

 

For the past events, see Record of AJWRC Activities

Women’s study tours

We organize women’s alternative study tour to exchange information and experiences with women’s and civil groups in other countries.


Advocacy and Campaigns

AJWRC monitors cases and policies that may violate women’s rights, run ad-hoc and long-term campaigns, and conduct researches and surveys for advocacy purposes.
We also actively participate in international feminist debates and campaigns.
 
Advocacy Work within the UN Human Rights Mechanisms

AJWRC is a NGO with special consultative status with ECOSOC granted in 2000. In the sixth periodical review of Japan’s compliance with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) held on July 23, 2009 in New York, AJWRC worked as a member organization of Japan NGO network for CEDAW (JNNC) on sending alternative reports and lobbying to the Committee members and the government.

 

 

Publications

Voices from Japan - English feminist journal on Japanese women

Women's Asia 21 - Feminist journal in Japanese

f visions - Feminist journal in Japanese

 

Other Information

 

Women's Information Library

Based on the wide network that the AJWRC has developed in the past 30 years, we provide wide range of information and resources on women’s issues as well as materials of grassroots women’s groups in Japan and other parts of the world.

 

Address

 

Asia-Japan Women's Resource Center

14-10-211 Sakuragaoka

Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0031 Japan

ph: (813) 3780-5245

fax: 3463-9752

e-mail: ajwrc[a]ajwrc.org

http://jp.ajwrc.org/

 

 

 

 

Asia-Pacific Human Rights Information Center (HURIGHTS OSAKA)

 

Year Established: 1994

 

Short Historical Background

 

Discussions within the United Nations in the early 1980s about the possibility of establishing a regional human rights mechanism in the Asia-Pacific triggered the appeal by the late Yo Kobota, a Japanese United Nations officer, for the creation of an institution that would contribute to the realization of this regional human rights arrangement. He sought Japan’s role in promoting human rights in the region by setting up a Human Rights Information Center in Asia. He proposed to set up the institution on the “...strengths of the people and the local governing bodies.”

 

The civil society movement in Osaka, in response to this call, appealed to the Osaka city and prefectural governments to help establish such a Human Rights Information Center. After a decade of preparation by both the civil society movement and the local governments in Osaka, the Asia-Pacific Human Rights Information Center was inaugurated on 17 December 1994. It was given the short name “HURIGHTS OSAKA.”

 

Since then, HURIGHTS OSAKA has been undertaking different initiatives on the promotion of human rights in Asia and the Pacific in collaboration with local, national, regional and international institutions.

 

In 2009, HURIGHTS OSAKA obtained a special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations. In 2012, HURIGHTS OSAKA became a general foundation under Japanese law.

 

Objectives

 

HURIGHTS OSAKA aims

 

  1. To engender popular understanding in Osaka of the international human rights standard;
  2. To support international exchange between Osaka and countries in Asia-Pacific through collection and dissemination of information and materials on human rights;
  3. To promote human rights in Asia-Pacific in cooperation with national and regional institutions as well as the United Nations.

 

Activities

 

HURIGHTS OSAKA engages in the following activities:

a. Information Collection and Dissemination - collection of materials on human rights, including information on human rights issues and practices, and their dissemination to the Asia-Pacific region in print, digital and other forms;

b. Research - study of a range of human rights issues relevant to the region (such as marginalization of indigenous peoples, minorities, refugees, migrant workers and other vulnerable groups; discrimination based on social status; development and human rights) in cooperation with qualified individuals and institutions;

c. Education – provision of educational activities at domestic and regional levels to promote better understanding and practice of human rights. This includes development of appropriate teaching/learning and training materials for individuals and institutions (including private and public corporations);

d. Publication - production of materials in English and Japanese languages such as newsletter, booklet, journal, occasional paper, audio-visual aid, and other materials;

e. Consultancy - provision of advisory services on human rights programs and research.

 

Special Concerns

 

HURIGHTS OSAKA has been focusing on human rights education in most of its regional activities.

 

Publications

 

English publications

Business, Human Rights and Northeast Asia - A Facilitator's Training Manual (2016)
Bridging Human Rights Principles and Business Realities in Northeast Asia (2014)

Human Rights Education in the Northeast Asian School Systems - Resource Material (2013)

Directory of Asia-Pacific Human Rights Centers, second edition (2013)

Law, Jurisprudence and Human Rights in Asia (2011)

Human Rights Education in Asia-Pacific - annual journal since 2010

Human Rights Education in Asian Schools - 12 volumes - annual journal (1998-2010)
The State of Human Rights Education in Northeast Asian School Systems: Obstacles, Challenges, Opportunities (2010)

Human Rights Education in the School Systems in Southeast Asia - Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR and Thailand (2009)

South Asian Teachers and Human Rights Education - A Training Resource Material (2009)

Educational Policies and Human Rights Awareness - Japan, the Philippines, India and Sri Lanka (2008)

Human Rights Education in Indian Schools (2007)

Human Rights Education in Philippine Schools (2006)

Human Rights Lesson Plans for Southeast Asian Schools (2003) (English, Vietnamese, Khmer, Bahasa Melayu, Bahasa Indonesia)

Schools, Human Rights and Society - Report of the 1998 Workshops on Human Rights Education in Schools (1999) (English and Japanese)

Human Rights in Asian Cultures - Continuity and Change (1997)

Development and Democracy: Philippines' Quest for the Next Century - occasional paper series (1998)

FOCUS Asia-Pacific - quarterly newsletter

 

Japanese publications

 

Jinken Hiroba - bimonthly newsletter

Jinken Nandaro? [What are Human Rights?] (2018)

Asia-Pacific Human Rights Review - annual journal (1997-2009)

Human Rights in the Administration of Justice: A Manual on Human Rights for Judges, Lawyers and Prosecutors - United Nations publication translated into Japanese (2006)

Human Rights Education (2004)

National Human Rights Institutions (2001)

Human Rights Pamphlets

 

Other Information

 

HURIGHTS OSAKA maintains a library with books, journals, magazines, and reports on human rights concepts, issues, practices, programs and institutions. Materials on related issues such as history, political/social/economic/cultural systems of countries in the Asia-Pacific are also included in the collection. The materials are sourced from human rights organizations and centers, universities and commercial publishing companies. Information on the materials can be accessed through the website of HURIGHTS OSAKA.

 

HURIGHTS OSAKA  has a meeting room for seminars, briefing sessions and other activities.

 

Address

 

Asia-Pacific Human Rights Information Center (HURIGHTS OSAKA)

8F, CE Nishihon-machi  Bldg.

1-7-7 Nishihonmachi, Nishi-ku

Osaka 550-0005 Japan

ph: (816) 6543-7002

fax: (816) 6543-7004

e-mail: webmail[a]hurights.or.jp

www.hurights.or.jp/english/

 

 

 

 

Buraku Liberation and Human Rights Research Institute (BLHRRI)

 

Year Established: 1968

 

Short Historical Background

 

The Buraku Liberation Research Institute (BLRI) was established in 1968 in cooperation with the Buraku Liberation League (BLL). In July 1998, it changed its name to Buraku Liberation and Human Rights Research Institute (BLHRRI). In 2013, with the reform of the corporate system, the Cabinet Office approved its new status as a general incorporated association.

 

Objective

 

BLHRRI aims to eliminate all forms of discrimination including Buraku discrimination, and establish human rights in society.

 

Programs and Activities

 

Due to the reform of the corporate system in Japan, BLHRRI reorganized its activities in the following manner:

 

Investigation and Research Division

Research Committees - five research committees

a.  Buraku disicrimination and history
b. Gender discrimination
c. Human rights education
d. Anti-discrimination law
e. Poverty and social exclusion

 

Education and Training Division
The Division regularly organizes the following human rights training programs for different sectors of society:
1. Buraku Liberation and Human Rights Leadership Course - launched in 1974, this is a twenty-six-day course involving fifty trainees and offered two times a year. As of 2014, about 5,000 people have already completed the course. 

2. Buraku Liberation and Human Rights Summer Course at Mt. Koya - since 1970, the summer course has been organized every August at Mt. Koya with about 1,300 participants for each course.
3. Buraku Liberation Summer Course for Western Japan - this is a course held every June in different parts of west Japan since 1976, and usually attended by about three thousand people.
4. Human Rights and Dowa Course for the Business Sector - this is a course for human rights trainers mainly in the business sector, and offered since 1980 in cooperation between state agencies, local governments and industrial organizations. It is held twice every year.
5. Human Rights Training and Research Assembly - this is a gathering of participants from different parts of Japan to exchange human rights training experiences and develop research works. Organized every year in different parts of the country, it is attended by an average of three thousand people each year.
6. Human Rights Training Tokyo Course - since 1987, the Tokyo Course has been organized for human rights training leaders in the business sector, local governments, religious organizations and mass media.

 

Publications

 

Current publications
* Human Rights - monthly magazine
* Buraku Liberation Research
* Discriminatory Incidents that Occurred throughout the Country (2014)

 

Past publications
* Year Book on Human Rights - annual report on human rights developments in Japan (2013)
* Tools of Talk - Hints of Training (2010)
* Human Rights Violations by Media and Reform of Media - From the point of view of human rights and freedom of the press (2010)
* Introduction of International Convention on All Form of Racial Discrimination (2009)
* Dissemination from Buraku History Research (Vol.1-3) (2009)
* Internet and Human Rights - Surviving the internet society (2009)
* For the Realization of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (2008)
* Adult Learning for Leaders of Human Rights Education (2008)

 

Other related activities

 
BLHRRI is also involved in the activities of the following organizations:
* Osaka Prefectural Citizens’ Meeting for Realizing the Establishment of the Graduate Institute of International Human Rights.
* Osaka Liaison Meeting for Universal Declaration for Human Rights
* National Research Meeting for Buraku History
* New Media Human Rights Organization
* International Movement Against All Forms of Discrimination and Racism
* International Movement Against All Forms of Discrimination and Racism - Japan Committee
* Network for Realizing National Levelers Declaration to be UNESCO Memory of the World.
* Citizens' Committee Calling for Enactment of an Anti-discrimination Law in Japan

 

Address

 

The Buraku Liberation and Human Rights Research Institute (BLHRRI)

8F, Human Rights Center Building

4-1-37, Namiyoke, Minato-ku

Osaka City, Japan 556-0001

ph: (816) 6581 8530

fax: (816) 6581 8540

e-mail: inq[a]blhrri.org

www.blhrri.org

 

 

 

Center for Documentation of Refugees and Migrants (CDR)

- University of Tokyo


Year Established: 2009

Short Historical Background


The Center for Documentation of Refugees and Migrants (CDR) was established in April 2009 supported by a grant from Hogakukan Ltd., a private corporation based in Tokyo. CDR acts as the secretariat of a lecture series titled “Human Mobility Studies” by the University of Tokyo’s Graduate School and College of Arts and Sciences. The lecture series began in April 2010.


CDR is a research organization specializing on the issues of refugees and migrants, and uses its research output and networks in supporting the lecture series and other activities.

Objectives


CDR aims to collect, organize and disseminate information related to the migration of peoples, and especially the study of migration. It has two main strategies: research and education. Its specialty is not limited to specific disciplines, rather it is oriented towards multi-disciplinary approach. By facilitating the interchange of actors related to human mobility issues from the neutral stance as an academic organization, CDR aims to become the center of knowledge and experiences of refugees and migrants.

Programs


CDR currently has two main research programs:
• Refugee status determination – this includes the development of a database of countries of origin of asylum seekers (COI-DB);
• Refugee resettlement – this includes field interview research of refugees resettled in Japan.

Activities


As an academic organization, CDR hosts many symposiums and seminars with a variety of guest speakers from all around the world. It also actively invites practitioners in the refugee and migration fields to take part in these activities. The open summer school on refugee protection is an example.

 

The Summer School is an annual intensive summer course on refugee studies. In 2011, the course focused on refugee rights, particularly regarding refugees without domestic legal status (a very serious issue facing refugees in Japan). In 2012, the course included coursework entitled “Refugee Status Determination in the Context of Refugee Protection: Theory and Practice of Credibility Assessment” and an international seminar/symposium. The Summer School is open to the public and is held in English (with translation to Japanese).

Special Concerns


As part of the University of Tokyo, which believes in internationalization and contribution to civil society by the academe, CDR’s main concern is to commit social problems and seek to improve
the situation.

Publications


CDR Quarterly, vols.1 to 5 (quarterly journal)
100 Q & A on Refugee Protection
• Shortbooks - one page summaries on a variety of topics related to migration and migration studies

Other Information


CDR has an online data sharing system that contains a variety of collected and sorted contents relating to refugee and migrant issues. The system uses Zotero, a free online data sharing system. CDR has been cooperating with private companies such as Hogakukan and Lexis-Nexis in the context of their corporate social responsibility (CSR). CDR also has keen relationship with the Tokyo Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Address

Center for Documentation of Refugees (CDR)

Rm.307, Bldg.9, 1-8-3 Komaba, Meguro

Tokyo, Japan

ph/fax: (813) 5465 8846

e-mail: cdr[a]hsp.c.u-tokyo.ac.jp

http://cdr.c.u-tokyo.ac.jp/

 

  

 

Center for Human Rights

 - Kindai University

 

 Year Established: 1986

 

 Short Historical Background

 

The Kinki University established in 1979 the Institute of Buraku Issues Studies based on a review of discriminatory practices at the university. The Institute was established in order to enforce a system of education and research on Buraku issues in the university. One of the most serious and extensive discriminatory practices at that time was the "Buraku Lists Scandal." The "Buraku Lists" were meant to identify the location of Buraku communities and to investigate personal backgrounds of individuals. The university was found to have bought a copy of the "Buraku List." On 1 April 1986, the Center for Human Rights was established to replace the Institute and started activities as an institution of education and research on human rights at Kinki University. The official English name of the university was changed from Kinki University to Kindai University in April 2016.

   

 Objectives

 

The Center aims to contribute to the realization of human rights by carrying out research on discrimination at home and abroad, including Buraku discrimination, race/ethnicity, gender discrimination and disability discrimination.

 

 Programs and Activities

 

The Center has been undertaking the following programs:

• Education and support for research on human rights issues;

• Research and investigation on human rights issues;

• Publication;

• Study meetings and public lectures;

• Collection of documents and information on human rights.

 

It holds the following annual activities:

 

• Courses

- April to July: Classes on "Human Rights and Society 1", "Human Rights and Law" and "NPO/NGO Theory" for students

- September to January (in the following year): Classes on "Human Rights and Society 2", "Human Rights and Law", and "Community Development Theory" for students

• Special Lectures on human rights for one week for students, staff and teachers (June, October and December)

• Field trip to human rights museum with students and teachers (July)

• Meetings on human rights issues with representatives of all faculties and board members of university 

 

 Publications

 

• Research papers on human rights (Japanese)

 

  Address

 

Center for Human Rights

- Kindai University

3-4-1 Kowakae, Higashi-Osaka, Osaka 577-8502 Japan

ph: (816) 6721-2332 (ext.2009)

fax: (816) 6730-2632

e-mail:

www.kindai.ac.jp/rd/research-center/human/

(Japanese language)

 

 

 

Center for Human Rights Education and Training


Year Established: 1987

Short Historical Background


Center for Human Rights Education and Training was founded in October 1987 as a Foundation under the auspices of the Management and Coordination Agency of the Japanese government.


Since then it has undertaken activities as a central body for public information activities on the Dowa problem. In response to a recommendation by the Consultative Council on Regional Improvement Measures in May 1996, the Cabinet of Japan made a decision on future measures for an early solution to the Dowa problem in July 1996. It also defined characteristics of the Center, as a foundation that supports and promotes education and public information on human rights. At this point, the character of the Center was constructively revised, and the relevant ministries and agencies resolved to promote the reform.


As a result, in April 1997 the Center started life anew as a foundation under the joint auspices of the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Education, and the Management and Coordination Agency.


As of April 1, 2012, the Center has been approved as Public Interest Incorporated Foundation based on Act on Authorization of Public Interest Incorporated Associations and Public Interest Incorporated Foundations.

Objectives


The Center aims to provide comprehensive education, public information, and public relations on human rights including the Dowa problem, while at the same time planning surveys and research, data collection and dissemination, and international collaboration with respect to education and public information on human rights, and finally giving advice on human rights, thus contributing to the protection of basic human rights.

Programs and Activities

 

Symposiums, Seminars and Lectures

The Center organizes symposiums, seminars and lectures on human rights issues with selected speakers and resource persons for civil servants, company employees, teachers, students, staff of NPOs and the general public. Topics have included Hansen’s disease, sustainable development goals, natural disasters, corporate social responsibility, LGBT issues, and the internet among others.
 
Training

The Center draws up and conducts human rights training programs for national and local government officials, company employees, staff of non-profit organizations, teachers, students, and members of the public who are interested in human rights issues.
 
Surveys and Research

The Center carries out public opinion surveys and research on a wide range of human rights topics including those related to business, the internet, the Dowa issue (Buraku discrimination), the LGBT community, and foreign residents in Japan. The Center also conducts research on the formulation of new mechanisms for awareness-building on human rights issues.
 
Publications

The Center publishes booklets, leaflets and other materials to raise awareness of human rights. Those wishing to use the booklets as teaching materials for human rights education and training at schools, workplaces and local government offices can choose from 45 titles covering everything from human rights in general to specific human rights themes.
 
DVDs

The Center produces DVDs for human rights awareness-raising. More than 50 titles are available, addressing topics such as the Dowa issue (Buraku discrimination), school bullying, domestic violence, power and sexual harassment, rights of persons with disabilities, rights of persons affected by Hansen’s disease (leprosy), LGBT rights and mental health. The Center also provides DVDs made by other filmmakers for a small fee. These materials can be utilized for human rights education and training at schools, workplaces and local government offices
 
Information Gathering and Dissemination

The Center collects and compiles information and data on human rights, which it makes available via its homepage and its monthly human rights journal Allyu.  Books, DVDs, display panels, and kamishibai (picture-story show) materials on human rights are also available in our Human Rights Library. In addition, the Center provides on its homepage abridged Japanese translations of press releases from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
 
Partnerships

The Center, in partnership with The Nippon Foundation, has conducted a follow-up research project in Japan on the implementation of the Principles and Guidelines for the Elimination of Discrimination against Persons affected by Leprosy and their Family Members that were adopted at the UN General Assembly in 2010.
 
Collaborations

The Center produces materials for human rights awareness and conducts human rights training upon request from local governments, companies, and organizations. Training is planned, overseen and delivered according to theme, target group and budget. The Center also provides editorial supervision for materials and resources produced by other organizations.

 


Other Information


The Center has a Human Rights Library that houses a collection of 15,000 books, 1,100 videos, 700 DVDs, 21 sets of display panels, 12 kamishibai (picture-story shows), educational documents on human rights prepared by municipalities and much more. Visitors to the library can also browse more than 100 newsletters, journals and annual reports issued by human rights organizations in Japan. For those wishing to host human rights education and training workshops, the library conference room can be used free of charge. The library is open to the public from Monday to Friday. Telephone and e-mail reference services are also available.

Address


Center for Human Rights Education and Training (Jinken Kyoiku Keihatu Suisin Sentaa)
4F, KDX Shibadaimon Bldg.
2-10-12, Shiba-daimon, Minato-ku, Tokyo

105-0012 Japan
ph: (81-3) 5777-1802
fax: (81-3) 5777-1803
e-mail: postman[a]jinken.or.jp
www.jinken.or.jp

 

 

 

Center for Prisoners’ Rights Japan (CPR)


Year Established: 1995

Short Historical Background


In 1993, Vivian Stern, then Secretary-General of Penal Reform International, encouraged Yuichi Kaido to establish a nongovernmental organization (NGO) dedicated to prison reform.


Coincidentally, Kaido was approached by Human Rights Watch (HRW) regarding a research project on Japanese prison conditions. Kaido and his friends worked hard to arrange interviews and visits for HRW’s delegation. The people who were involved in these activities (lawyers, academics, students and grassroots activists) subsequently co-founded with Kaido the Center for Prisoners’ Rights (CPR) in 1995.


The CPR is the first Japanese NGO dedicated to:
• Improving the human rights situation in Japanese prisons, and
• Lobbying for Japanese penal system and practices that subscribe to the international human rights standards. CPR has for sixteen years been providing useful information on treatment of prisoners nationwide and giving practical advice and assistance to prisoners and their families.

Objectives


The organization aims to reduce unnecessary imprisonment enhancing non-custodial measures and to abolish the death penalty.

Programs and Activities

 

The main activities of CPR are:• Investigation of human rights violations inside detention facilities and make public statements of such findings inside and outside Japan;• Provision of legal advice when needed, and help bringing a lawsuit or an appeal in particular cases;• Investigation of the various international human rights standards related to Criminal Detention Facilities, and to seek the ratification of human rights treaties when relevant(however, at the present time CPR is not able to take actions regarding treaties related to Immigration Control).


Special Concerns


CPR emphasizes its concern for the rehabilitation all prisoners, the enjoyment of their basic human rights such as right to life, sufficient medical treatment, communication with families and other appropriate treatment that helps prisoners keep their human dignity.

Other Information


CPR is a member of the World Coalition against the Death Penalty (WCADP) and Anti-Death Penalty Asia Network (ADPAN), and a correspondent member of the International Federation for Human
Rights (FIDH).

Publications


• CPR Newsletter (quarterly)

Address


Center for Prisoners’ Rights (CPR)
Lions Mansion #703,
2-3-16, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tokyo, Japan, 160-0022
ph: (813) 5379-5055
fax: (81) 5379-5055
email: cpr[a]cpr.jca.apc.org
www.cpr.jca.apc.org

 

 

Chiba Prefecture Human Rights Awareness Raising Center


Year Established: 1994


Short Historical Background


The Chiba Prefecture Human Rights Awareness Raising Center was started by the Buraku Awareness Raising Center volunteer group, which was established by the Buraku Liberation Movement in July 1986. In March 1994, the volunteer group obtained a license as a corporation from Chiba Prefectural government. In April 1996, the volunteer group was renamed Chiba Prefecture Human Rights Awareness Raising Center. The members of the Center include private human rights movement groups, research groups, businesses, religious bodies, local government and educators. There are currently 124 groups and individual members.


Objectives


Alongside the Chiba Prefectural government’s human rights awareness -raising and educational research activities, the Center also aims to improve the awareness of human rights issues among Chiba citizens in order to facilitate the resolution of Buraku issues.

 

Programs and Activities

 

The activities of the Center are currently implemented through a research committee, a committee for audio-visual materials, a history research group, a committee on Dowa education in schools, and a ‘Stigma’ editorial committee. The main activities are the following:
• Publication of a monthly magazine on human rights issues called Stigma. (released on the 10th of each month)
• Holding meetings for Chiba Prefecture research on Buraku Issues
• Editing the Dowa education program by the Chiba Prefecture high school education research association; and selling Dowa education materials Amandora - Our Society and Discrimination and the revised edition Full of Kindness.
• Production of video documentaries and handbook, raising awareness of Dowa and human rights issues ‘Message to the Future’, and ‘Encounters... Youth is Now’
• Holding intensive summer course on education and awareness (Dowa education); and a course on human rights leadership
• Organizing meetings and planning courses, as well as lecturers when needed, to local government, private companies and schools
• Holding surveys on human rights issues
• Selling and renting out Chiba human rights exhibition panel and CD roms
• Providing human rights business consultation (free of charge).
• Renting out the Chiba Prefecture human rights training centre.

 

Address

 

Chiba Prefecture Human Rights Awareness Raising Centre
352 Motosakura,
Shisui-machi, Inba-gun,
Chiba Prefecture, 285-0926, Japan
ph: (81-43) 496-4967
fax: (81-43) 496-4572
e-mail: cjinken[a]symphony.plala.or.jp
www.jca.apc.org/~kswbr/

 

 

 

Child Information and Research Center

(Anti-discrimination, Human Rights, Peace, Respect for Diversity)

 

Year Established: 1977


Short Historical Background


The Child Information and Research Center is a non-profit organization founded in 1977. It subscribes to the view that all have differences based on many factors such as culture, sex, color of skin, religion, physical attribute, and with or without disabilities. Thus, it believes that it should be natural for diverse people to live together in a society. Yet, those differences are not accepted and valued fully in the current society. As a result, indifference, prejudice, and oppression are still prevailing all over the world in various forms. Age is considered as one of those factors that lead to discrimination. Children are considered immature and the target of instruction and protection.

 

The Convention on the Rights of the Child adopted by the United Nations in 1989 bans discrimination towards children by stating that they should be respected as individuals and as citizens who constitute a society, and should not solely be given protection. Thus the Center promotes the “in partnership with children” policy by striving to work together with children to construct a society where everyone accepts each other’s differences.


Objectives


The Center aims to promote and enlighten the public on the various rights of children, and to create an equal partnership between children and adults while encouraging networking among people involved in child issues.


Programs and Activities


• Child Empowerment Programs

»» Childline OSAKA 0120-99-7777
»» Counseling service "Consultation on Child and Family Matters"
»» Telephone Consultation: 06-4394-8754
»» Teens hotline on a website "Your Voice"

 

• Regional Support Programs for Networking and Raising Children

»» Child Rearing Support Line - 06-4394-8754
»» Childcare group "Momogumi"
»» Children and Playing Network
»» Supporters for child rearing issues "Supporter Net"

 

• Research and Enlightenment Activities for Child Advocacy
»» The Center organizes seminars and research groups as below:

»» Research project on independent advocacy services for children and young people
»» Theme-specific research group meetings
»» Human rights seminars for education and nurturing
»» Introduction of resource persons and organizing seminars
»» Cooperating programs with the local administrations.

 

Publications

 
• Publication of a monthly magazine Harappa that covers various topics related to children including human rights, child nurturing assistance, child support programs, messages from teenagers, and social issues such as environmental concerns. The purpose of this publication is to develop a society where an equal partnership between children and adults flourishes.
• Production of other books and booklets in order to expand new networking and to spread the Center’s concept and achievements related to child-rearing and child rights widely to the society.
All publications are available only in Japanese language.


Address


Child Information and Research Center
5F, HRC Building,4-1-37, Namiyoke, Minato-ku
Osaka 552-0001 Japan
ph (81-6) 4708-7087
fax (81-6) 4394-8501
e-mail: info[a]kojoken.jp
www.kojoken.jp/

 

 

 

General Research Institute on the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC Institute)


Year Established: 2002


Short Historical Background


With a view to contributing to the development of research on the rights of the child in Japan, the General Research Institute on the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC Institute) was founded in March 2002, and maintained especially in order to establish academic foundations that are essential for the implementation and dissemination of the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).


The CRC Institute is composed of researchers, attorneys-at-law and other lawyers, doctors, teachers, workers in institutions, parliamentarians, municipal officers and others involved in the promotion and protection of child rights.


Objectives


The CRC Institute aims
1. To promote comprehensive and multidisciplinary studies on child rights;
2. To promote child rights in local communities principally through municipalities and non-governmental organizations/nonprofit organizations (NGOs/NPOs);
3. To promote global studies on child rights, in particular at the Asian region;
4. To undertake surveys on and examine practices and policies on children as well as to promote advocacy on the basis of the outcomes of such studies;
5. To function as a center of materials and literature on the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

 

Programs and Activities

 

The CRC Institute implements the following activities:

 

• Comprehensive and practical studies on child rights in collaboration with other organizations working for the promotion and protection of child rights, the CRC Institute primarily undertakes the following activities in order to promote comprehensive and practical studies on children’s rights:

  • It organizes “Workshop on the CRC” on a regular basis and takes up a broad range of issues, including basic issues concerning the CRC as well as timely issues;
  • It organizes “Forum on Child Rights Studies” annually and takes up interdisciplinary issues, covering medicine, welfare, pedagogy, law and other areas, or issues at home, school, community, national, international and other levels. The outcomes of these meetings are published in the bi-annual Children’s Rights Journal in appropriate ways.

 

• Center of materials and literature on the CRC
In order to ensure that all those concerned with child rights can share information about the CRC, the CRC Institute collects and maintains literature, materials and other forms of information on child rights and the CRC. Its collection, in the main office as well as in branch offices at Waseda and Toyo Universities, covers almost all the literature and materials in Japan and of the UN on child rights and the CRC. It is now collecting relevant literature and materials of other international organizations and on Asian situations. The bibliography of these literature and materials is published on Children’s Rights Journal.

 

• Surveys on and monitoring of child rights In order to promote the monitoring of child rights and the implementation of the CRC, the CRC Institute undertakes studies on perspectives and methods of such monitoring.

 

• Networking among local municipalities in Japan and at the Asian level recognizing that local municipalities and civil society play essential roles in realizing child rights, the CRC Institute provides direct or indirect support to municipalities in enacting child rights ordinances and in developing child policies. Its main members directly or indirectly contribute to the enactment or implementation of child rights ordinances, formulation of comprehensive child policies, development of systems for child participation or remedies for children and restructuring of administrative organizations concerned with children, including by chairing relevant councils, training officials and providing information.

 

• Contribution to child rights studies in the international community, especially at the Asian level
It seeks to promote exchange of information and joint research on the protection and promotion of child rights at the global level, with special emphasis on the Asian region. Bearing in mind the possible development of regional mechanisms for the protection and promotion of child rights in Asia, it undertakes preparatory activities, including organizing international conferences, conducting international joint research projects, and establishing information networks a provision of information on the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child to Japanese society as well as on the situation in Japan to the Committee.

 

A director of the CRC Institute, Yuji HIRANO, has attended almost all the sessions of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child and provided information on its work to Japanese society; at the same time, he has provided relevant information to the Committee on various occasions.


When Japan’s second periodic report was considered by the Committee, the directors of the CRC Institute organized relevant NGOs, and contributed in the preparation of NGO reports and in the dialogue with the government. They also attended the Committee’s pre-sessional working group and the plenary session with a view to providing information. 

 

• Contribution to UNICEF’s “Child-Friendly Cities” initiative

The CRC Institute functions as a focal point of Japanese local municipalities and has contributed to networking of child-friendly cities promoted by UNICEF.


Publications

 

Children’s Rights Journal

 

Address

 

General Research Institute of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC Institute)
2-6-1 Midorigaoka, Meguro-ku
Tokyo 152-0034, Japan
ph/fax: (81-3) 3203-4355
e-mail: npo_crc[a]nifty.com
http://npocrc.org (only in Japanese)

 

 

Postal address:
c/o Laboratory 1576, School of Letters

Arts and Sciences Bldg.33, Waseda University
1-24-1 Toyama Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0052, Japan

 

 

 

Hokkaido University Center for Ainu and Indigenous Studies


Year Established: 2007


Short Historical Background


In December 2005, Dr. Mutsuo Nakamura, the then-President of Hokkaido University, declared that it is the university’s “duty” to provide national and international research and education programs featuring Ainu and other indigenous minorities while respecting their dignity in light of the historical background of the university and the Ainu people. (Statement by the former President)

 

Based on this declaration, the Center for Ainu & Indigenous Studies was established as one of the university’s joint-use research and education facilities in April 2007. The Center plans to conduct comprehensive and interdisciplinary studies into Ainu and indigenous peoples and to make proposals for their reciprocal coexistence in a multicultural society. The Center is also committed to contributing to the development of diverse cultures and the promotion of local communities.


Objectives

 

The Center's aims are reflected in the following programs:
1. Public communication and education - The Center promotes interdisciplinary research and surveys concerning Ainu and other indigenous peoples around the world, and has six full-time professors specializing in history, archaeology, cultural anthropology, museology, linguistics and constitutional law. They provide open lectures to share research findings with the public and encourage Ainu people to utilize them. The Center also holds public lectures and other events regularly with researchers invited from Japan and elsewhere who specialize in the languages, histories, cultures, legal systems, intellectual property rights and other aspects related to Ainu and other indigenous peoples as well as experts in the exhibition, operation and other functions of their cultural facilities;
2. Interdisciplinary research - In addition to its full-time faculty members, the Center also enjoys the contribution of 12 part-time faculty members from HU graduate schools and other institutions. With this support, the facility also engages in research on Ainu and other indigenous peoples in a range of academic fields other than those in which the full-time faculty members specialize, such as political science, pedagogy and tourism studies. The Center further promotes joint research in each of these disciplines with other universities and research institutions in Japan as well as universities, indigenous groups and other organizations in countries with indigenous peoples;
3. Establishment of international networks and exertion of liaison functions - The Center promotes networking among relevant organizations and institutions outside the university as well as at overseas education and research organizations, and creates liaison functions connecting the university with external society;
4. Contribution to practical cultural inheritance and other considerations - Ainu culture cannot be considered monolithic, as the traditional lifestyles and culture revealed by historical documents and materials differ from those maintained or created by Ainu people today. Accordingly, the Center also places importance on researching the cultural inheritance of Ainu people. For instance, in its research on approaches to the museum display of Ainu cultural artifacts, the facility collaborates with Ainu people today in practical activities to carry on traditional crafts and other skills while incorporating contemporary tastes so that the essential characteristics of Ainu culture do not become defined through museum exhibitions;
5. Advice on Ainu policy promotion - In the Center’s role as Japan’s only research center specializing in studies on Ainu and other indigenous peoples, it has provided expert advice based on its own research findings to the national government for the comprehensive promotion of Ainu policy since the Diet’s June 2008 adoption of the Resolution to Recognize the Ainu as an Indigenous People. It also plays a role in communicating Ainu views and experiences in other countries to the government based on the belief that the government will need positive advice from experts in the field because indigenous policy represents uncharted territory for Japan.

Programs and Activities

 

Ongoing Research Projects

  • A rights strategy project aimed at studying specific ways to realize the rights of the Ainu and indigenous peoples
  • A teaching materials project in which curriculums and teaching materials for schools will be created
  • An Ainu history project aimed at creating new historical accounts of the Ainu and Hokkaido from an Ainu perspective
  • An ecotourism project designed to expedite our understanding of indigenous peoples, improve their economic standing and contribute to the betterment of local welfare
  • An Ainu language project aimed at creating an Ainu language database
  • A social survey project aimed at conducting fact-finding surveys on the Ainu that will withstand academic scrutiny
  • A museum project aimed at examining the relationship between museums and indigenous peoples as well as the contemporary significance of museum materials
  • An indigenous art project aimed at investigating the state of indigenous art in contemporary society.


Publications


CAIS research efforts produce studies, which are published as occasional papers, working and discussion papers, and books.


Other Information


• Academic Exchanges
In October 2007, the Center for Aboriginal Studies at the National Chengchi University, Taiwan, and the Hokkaido University Center for Ainu and Indigenous Studies concluded an agreement to promote academic exchanges and cooperation between the two institutions.

 

Such activities include exchanging faculty members and research fellows, conducting joint research projects and organizing symposiums, and exchanging academic materials and information. The Center is currently in the process of promoting international networks among relevant institutions in the United States, Canada, Northern Europe and the Pacific.


Address

 

Hokkaido University Center for Ainu and Indigenous Studies
Kita 8, Nishi 6, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0808 Japan
ph/fax: (+81) 11 706 2859
e-mail : ainu[a]let.hokudai.ac.jp
www.cais.hokudai.ac.jp

 

 

 

 

Human Rights Now (HRN)

 

 Year Established: 2006

 

 Short Historical Background

 

Japan, similar to other countries, has many lawyers’ groups, civil rights groups, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that have significantly contributed to the improvement of the domestic human rights situation through litigation and/or political advocacy. Still, Japan has few organizations addressing human rights from an international perspective and/or dealing with human rights issues across borders.

 

In this context, Human Rights Now (HRN) was established in 2006 through which lawyers, academics, journalists, and activists have the opportunity to raise awareness, and pursue the implementation of, international human rights standards inside and outside Japan with a special focus on Asian countries. HRN is meant also to engage in human rights advocacy in global forums such as the United Nations (UN).

 

In support of the goal of achieving “Human Security” in the 21st century called for by the UN Human Security Commission, HRN finds it crucial to improve compliance with human rights norms as a prerequisite to development and peace.

 

HRN intends to contribute to the quest for “Human Security,” specifically in the human rights field in Asia with the cooperation of other development, peace-building and human rights NGOs.

 

Objectives

 

HRN aims

1. To make an international contribution to address human rights violations by undertaking field investigations of massive human rights violations and publicizing the findings, and empowering and supporting the development of the legal system in the countries of focus

2. To take action through international institutions in order to contribute to the enforcement of human rights standards and norms through monitoring, lobbying, and providing recommendations to United Nations human rights bodies such as the Human Rights Council; and by providing input to ASEAN and similar institutions in Asia

3. To take domestic action to promote human rights by introducing relevant international standards in public debates over domestic human rights issues, advocating for the implementation of recommendations made by UN treaty bodies to the Japanese government, and calling for action by the Japanese government and corporations to redress massive human rights violations in other countries.

  

Activities

 

Taking Action on Ongoing Human Rights Violation

 

HRN conducts fact finding missions in places where people suffer from gross violations of human rights and humanitarian law. Specifically, HRN conducts field investigations, publicizes the reports and calls for international attention. It also conducts advocacy to end ongoing human rights violation.

 

Transitional Justice Project

 

Transitional justice describes both processes and mechanisms associated with a society’ s attempts to come to terms with a legacy of large-scale past abuses, in order to ensure accountability, serve justice and achieve reconciliation. Addressing past abuses includes investigation of the violation, identifying responsible persons and systems, ensuring prosecution, providing reparation for victims and enhancing reconciliation. Although this effort should not be enforced from the outside, HRN believes that international human rights organizations can play a meaningful role in enhancing a society’s effort to overcome impunity and injustice. In this regard, HRN researches and monitors the process of transitional justice and makes recommendations after full consultation with the civil society of the country.

 

Official Development Assistance (ODA) and Human Rights Diplomacy Project

 

Japan is one of the largest donors of development assistance to countries in Asia. However, the quality of Japan’s assistance, as well as Japanese diplomacy in general, has been criticized. Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) policy has been criticized because it does not provide for adequate safeguards against resulting human rights violations or environmental deterioration. Japan does not also properly use its position and influence as one of the largest donor countries for the promotion and protection of human rights in the countries getting assistance.

 

Stop Violence against Women (VAW)

 

In the Asian region there are serious crimes regularly being committed against women and children. Examples include honor killings, human trafficking, commercial exploitation of children, sati, and dowry systems. Many serious abuses against women also have their roots in conflict situations. It is important to turn the spotlight on these abuses and monitor them. At the same time, it is important to partner with local NGOs and women’s groups, forming an international lobby, to work to improve the situation.

 

Human Rights Education

 

HRN conducts human rights education at both domestic and international levels.

 

 Publications

 

  • Human Rights Now published a report on extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances In the Philippines, based on its fact finding mission to the country. (statement on the human rights situation in the Philippines 2008)
  • Claiming for Justice for the Victims of Extra-judicial Killings and Enforced Disappearances in the Philippines (Statement on the human rights situation in the Philippines, 6 December 2007)
  • Japanese lawyers and activists call for immediate release of Pakistan human rights defenders and return to rule of law (Statement on 10 Dec 2007)
  • Burma : Open Letter to the President of Human Rights Counsel (Statement on 28 September 2007)
  • Philippines : Press Statement ( Statement on April 2007)
  • Statement of support for Cambodian human rights defenders, Human Rights Now calls for an End to Impunity for Extrajudicial Killings in the Philippines ( Statement on 10 December 2006)
  • FAFO survey questions and responses ( Statement on September 2006)
  • Cambodia : Justice for Victims ( Statement on 13 September 2006)

 

 

Address

 

Human Rights Now

3F Marukou Building, 1-20-6 Higashi Ueno

Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0015 JAPAN

ph: (813) 3835-2110

fax: (813) 3834-2406

e-mail info[a]ngo-hrn.org

http://hrn.or.jp/eng/

 

 

 

Hyogo Buraku Liberation and Human Rights Research Institute

 

 Year Established: 1988

 

 Short Historical Background

 

 

 Objectives

 

The Hyogo Buraku Liberation and Human Rights Research Institute (Institute) particularly aims to abolish discrimination against the Buraku community. It also aims to conduct research on issues facing this community, and at the same time, engage in research related to human rights and discrimination issues in Japan and abroad. Moreover, the Institute also conducts human rights education activities, which, along with its research projects, aim to achieve equality and liberation for the members of the Buraku community and other victims of discrimination.

 

Programs and Activities

 

Data, Material, and Information Collection – the Institute collects data, material, and information mainly on the history of the Buraku communities in Hyogo Prefecture, but also on the implementation of the Dowa Social Integration Education project in Hyogo Prefecture. Data, material, and information collection are eventually documented in a way which is accessible to the public.

 

Research and Study – one of the main outcomes of the Institute’s research is the Seminar on Human Rights. Research and Study also contributes to the Institute’s annual bulletin. The Institute produced in 2007 a report entitled “The Employment Conditions in the Buraku Community” which details and analyses the results of the surveys it held. The Institute is in the process of producing a report on the results of a human rights opinion survey carried out at Inagawachou town in Hyogo Prefecture in 2008.

 

Training – the Institute holds human rights training activities, such as the following: The Hyogo Buraku Liberation and Human Rights Research Institute annual open meeting, biannual lectures on human rights issues, and quadrennial seminars on human rights and civil liberties. Moreover, the Institute sends out lecturers on topics related to human rights issues on regular basis.

 

International Exchange Development

 

Special Concerns

 

Employment conditions in Buraku communities

 

Publications

 

  • The Hyogo Buraku Liberation Movement Newsletter (quadrennial)
  • Bulletin of the Hyogo Buraku Liberation Movement (annual)
  • Documentation of Human Rights History in Hyogo Prefecture
  • Employment Conditions in the Buraku Community (2007)

 

Other Information

 

Publications, research studies, events, and other information can be accessed at the Institute’s website (www3.osk.3web.ne.jp/~blrhyg/)

 

 Address

 

The Hyogo Buraku Liberation and Human Rights Research Institute

6-7-10 Motomachi Kansai Building 4th Floor, Motomachi Street

Chuo-ku, Kobe City 650-0022 Japan

ph: (81-78) 367-8925

fax: (81-78) 367-8924

email: blrhyg[a]osk3.3web.ne.jp; blrhyg[a]extra.ocn.ne.jp

http://blrhyg.org/

 

 

Institute for Global Governance Research

- Hitotsubashi University

 

Year Established: 2020

Short Historical Background

 

The Institute for Global Governance Research (GGR) was established in April 2020 as a university-wide organization focusing on the two pillars of global law and global governance research, reorganizing the former Center for Global Law Research. Its research in global law aims to develop interdisciplinary and advanced theories that include information, web transactions and international taxation focused on legal innovation such as artificial intelligence, financial technology, online dispute resolution. In global governance, it conducts research on advanced theories that contribute to the resolution of conflicts, environmental problems, and new issues which arise from the movement of people and information and are increasingly diversified due to its transnational nature and the rapid progress of science and technology. It established various programs under the two units of Global Law and Global Governance to carry out activities including: research activities; international exchange in academic and professional fields; development of domestic and international human and information networks; and collaborative projects with professional institutions. The GGR uses the results of its research for undergraduate and graduate education at the Graduate School of Law.

 

Objectives

 

The Institute for Global Governance Research (GGR) aims

1. to address today’s policy issues in close collaboration with domestic, international research and educational institutions and practitioners;

2. to promote cutting-edge research; and
3. to become a hub for research and education in law and international relations in Japan and around the world.

 

Programs and Activities

 

Democracy and Human Rights Program

Entering the 21st century, the norms and institutions of democracy and human rights are being subjected to various challenges from within and outside states, and democracy is in a crisis worldwide. This program aims to promote a deeper understanding of the current state of the liberal international order through research on the global situation of democratic and human rights norms and institutions, and to make policy proposals that contribute to the maintenance of the liberal international order. It also includes training of young people on conducting research and defending liberal values.

Legal Innovation Program

The current society is undergoing major changes through expansion of global data protection, promotion of AI (artificial intelligence) utilization, and introduction of diverse work styles. This program aims to conduct research that goes beyond the conventional legal framework of national law and court systems to create novel law studies in the era of drastic changes, and to implement them in society through joint research and policy proposals, forming a global central hub that connects various stakeholders. The program also develops legal professionals in emerging fields such as the governance of data and AI.

The GGR disseminates the results of its research both domestically and internationally and contributes to the development of legal practitioners and researchers who play active roles on the international stage.
 

Publications

 

GGR Issue Briefings / Working Papers

  • Sulastri, Being Connected from Myanmar: “We Are Still Here," Issue Briefing No. 66 (April 30, 2024)
  • Kazuki Ichida, Challenges in Measures against Digital Influence Operations: Why can’t the EU/US deal with the methods used by China, Russia, and Iran?, Issue Briefing No. 63 (April 15, 2024)
  • Hnin Htet Htet Aung, Reflections of a Myanmar Activist: Navigating Struggles and Fostering Resilience in Japan for the Homeland, Issue Briefing No. 62 (April 12, 2024)
  • Sulastri, Hong Kong Activism from the Perspective of Journalism and Cultural Ideas, Issue Briefing No. 59 (March 28, 2024)
  • Parin Jaruthavee, Freedom of Party Formation through the Constitutions of Thailand, Issue Briefing No. 58 (March 22, 2024)
  • Wu Tung-Wen, Visualizing Record China Discourse through Exponential Family Embeddings, Working Paper No. 9 (March 21, 2024)
  • Hnin Htet Htet Aung, Motherhood in Activism: A Dialogue with a Myanmar Activist Living in Japan, Issue Briefing No. 57 (March 13, 2024)
  • Anna Dolidze, China?Georgia Relations: A New Move on the Chessboard?, Issue Briefing No. 55 (March 8, 2024)
  • Wu Tung-Wen, Analyzing Record China through the Structural Topic Model, Working Paper No. 8 (March 7, 2024)
  • Takamichi Saito, An Overview of Attribution in Cyberspace Influence Operations, Issue Briefing No. 54 (March 4, 2024)
  • Niranjan Sahoo, How Disinformation Erodes the World’s Largest Democracy, Issue Briefing No. 53 (February 26, 2024)
  • Alric Lee, Fragmented Voices: The Struggle for Democracy in Hong Kong and Abroad, Issue Briefing No. 51 (February 7, 2024)
  • Masao Imamura, Humanitarian Assistance to Myanmar: Assessing Aid Delivery in Conflict Zones, Issue Briefing No. 50 (Issue Briefing No. 50)
  • Shingo Kato, Spanish General Election 2023: The Retreat of Populism, Including the Far Right, and Its Lessons for Liberal Democracies Around the World, Issue Briefing No. 49 (December 27, 2023)
  • Shigeru Minowa, The Current State of Democracy in Mexico as Seen in Attempts to Reform the Electoral System, Issue Briefing No. 46 (November 10, 2023)
  • Andrey Kirpach, Bridging Realities: How Perceptions of Refugees Are Influenced by VR Interactions, Working Paper No. 4 (November 10, 2023)
  • Kazuki Ichida, Geopolitical Challenges of Chinese Smart Cities, Issue Briefing No. 44 (October 31, 2023)
  • Muhamad Takiyuddin Ismail, Malaysia State Election 2023: Prospects for the "Unity Government," Issue Briefing No. 40 (October 6, 2023)
  • Kazuki Ichida, Problems Facing U.S. Disinformation Measures, Issue Briefing No. 38 (October 3, 2023)
  • Yuki Miyoda, The Rise of ESG Investment and Its Controversial Reception in the United States: Implications for Global Governance, Issue Briefing No. 36 (September 27, 2023)
  • Patrick Poon, Problems with Hong Kongers’ “Nationality” in Residency Registration and Renewal of Hong Kong SAR Passport in Japan, Issue Briefing No. 35 (September 21, 2023)
  • Tohkairin Takuto,"Democracy" in Unrecognized States: Its Variations and Determinants, Working Paper No .3 (August 22, 2023)
  • Hnin Htet Htet Aung, Implementation of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus Has Failed, Issue Briefing No. 30 (July 7, 2023)
  • Prakrit Rakwong, 2023 Thai General Election: The Rise of the Opposition, Issue Briefing No. 27 (May 12, 2023)
  • Sascha Hannig Nunez, What Chile's Failed New Constitution Can Teach Us about Democratic Processes and Failed Expectations, Issue Briefing No. 25 (April 17, 2023)
  • Yujin Woo, The Present and Future of Displaced Ukrainians: Rethinking Refugee Policies in Japan, Issue Briefing No. 23 (April 6, 2023)
  • Hnin Htet Htet Aung, The Long Journey of Civil Society in Myanmar, Issue Briefing No. 21 (March 14, 2023)
  • Hnin Htet Htet Aung, Humanitarian Assistance under Crisis in Myanmar, Issue Briefing No. 19 (January 30, 2023)
  • Jaeun YUN, Attention-Gaining Fact Checking and Its Potential in the Era of “Information Warfare,” Issue Briefing No. 18 (January 27, 2023)
  • Ji Yeon Park, Economic Tranquility and Trade Agreements: How Global Economic Conditions May Affect the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, Issue Briefing No. 14 (December 28, 2022)


Other publications

  • AKIYAMA Nobumasa, "Institutional Considerations on the Authority to Investigate and Verify in the Global Health Regime" [in Japanese], International Politics, No. 211, November, 25, 2023
  • TAKEMURA Hitomi, "The Postwar Conception of the Allied Powers and the Charter Regime: The Dramatic Development of International Criminal Law and International Human Rights Law" [in Japanese],  The History of International Human Rights Law, July 31, 2023
  • ICHIHARA Maiko, "Japan and South Korea should also support Refugees in Asia" [in Japanese], Shinano Mainichi Shimbun, August 6, 2023
  • ICHIHARA Maiko, "The Transformation of International Politics as Seen in False Information and Narratives about Israel and Hamas" [in Japanese],  The Foresight, December 8, 2023
  • ICHIHARA Maiko, Myanmar Issue at Crossroads for Solution [in Japanese], Shinano Mainichi Shimbun, November 12, 2023
  • Sascha HANNIG NUNEZ, An Op-Ed on ‘Boric and the Mirage of his China Criticism, el Espectador, October 24, 2023

 

Address

 

Institute for Global Governance Research
Hitotsubashi University
2-1 Naka Kunitachi Tokyo,
186-8601, Japan
e-mail:ggr.info[a]ad.hit-u.ac.jp
https://ggr.hias.hit-u.ac.jp/en

 

 

 

Institute for Human Rights Research and Education

- Kwansei Gakuin University

 

 Year Established: 1995

 

 Short Historical Background

 

In the 1970s, discriminatory remarks made by a lecturer about burakumin (an outcast group at the bottom of the traditional Japanese social order) was a catalyst in Kwansei Gakuin University's start in offering human rights education courses for the whole university. The University has undertaken various human rights measures over the years, such as the founding of the Institute for Human Rights Research and Education in 1995 and announcing the "Kwansei Gakuin University Human Rights Education Basic Policy" in 2014 as a declaration from the university president.

 

 Objectives

 

The Institute aims

1. To undertake research on human rights issues

2. To establish and administer regular courses on human rights

3. To implement awareness-raising programs and produce human rights materials.

  

Programs and Activities

 

Research projects – The Institute undertakes a number of research projects such as the following:

  • Discrimination and human rights in a borderless world – citizens’ rights and the rights of ethnic groups
  • Human rights education in Kwansei Gakuin – issues raised by the “U.N. Decade for Human Rights Education”
  • Japan’s modernization and the buraku problem – the diversification of types of discrimination and discrimination against burakumin, with particular reference to communication issues
  • Globalization and human rights education – human rights and coexistence in the age of globalization.

 

Human rights course - The Institute runs a general course on human rights offered to all students in the University, as well as the course “Discrimination and Human Rights” in the Schools of Policy Studies and Science and Technology. Since the 2005 academic year, the Institute has been offering the course “Introduction to Human Rights” that helps students to understand the variety of human rights issues, and the course “Human rights and the problems of foreign residents in Japan” to raise awareness on the problems of foreign 'newcomers' to Japan, and the human rights issues they encounter.

 

The main courses offered across all Schools in the University are as follows:

  • On the Burakumin issue: The reality of the Burakumin communities and the task of liberation
  • On basic human rights: Human rights and coexistence, The diversity and true nature of human rights issues, Discrimination and human rights
  • On disability: Toward a society respecting human rights – respect for diversity
  • On the Korean residents issue: The history of Japan-Korea relations, Korean residents in Japan – legal status and education at the present time
  • On gender issues: Japan and Asia, Work, marriage and daily life in a male-dominated society
  • On the problems faced by foreign residents in Japan and human rights: Human rights in an increasingly multi-cultural Japan.

 

Lectures on Human Rights - The Institute offers lectures on human rights to students and members of the faculty and staff. With the availability of sign language interpretation and computer note taking, the lectures guarantee full access to information to every participant. 

 

Seminars - The Institute holds five to seven seminars each year. They include Film Sessions, which are open to the public.

 

Human Rights Training Program for Faculty and Staff – The Institute holds an annual training program for all newly-appointed members of the faculty and staff. The program includes lectures on human rights and academic harassment, and visits to relevant institutions such the Osaka Human Rights Museum (LIBERTY OSAKA).

 

 Publications 

 

• International Encyclopedia of Human Rights - this is the Japanese version of a major reference book on human rights by Robert L. Maddex. Under the editorial supervision of the Institute, the book was translated by a Kwansei Gakuin University faculty team consisting of Utebi Keiji, Sawada Yukiko, Takeda Jō, Fujii Kazuo, Funaki Jo and Hosomi Kazushi, and published in April 2007 by Akashi Shoten

• Kwansei Gakuin University Journal of Human Rights Studies

• KG Human Rights Booklet (annual) - an awareness-raising publication containing reports of the Human Rights Lectures.

• Materials on Human Rights Issues (annual) - distributed to all new students.

 

 

 Address

  

Institute for Human Rights Research and Education

- Kwansei Gakuin University

1-1-155 Uegahara Nishinomiya, Hyogo 662-8501 Japan

ph: (81-798) 54-6720

fax: (81-798) 54-6720

e-mail: masahi[a]kwansei.ac.jp

www.kwansei.ac.jp/r_human/

 

 

 

The Institute of Human Rights Studies

- Kansai University

 

 Year Established: 1974

  

 Short Historical Background

  

The Institute of Buraku Studies was established at our university in 1974. This Institute was the first of its kind among private universities and the second among all in Japan where a wide range of issues on human rights and discrimination were researched. It was reorganized in 1985 to become what is known today as the Institute of Human Rights Studies.

  

Objectives 

 

The Institute aims 

1. To facilitate the fulfillment of human rights both within and outside the university

2. To contribute towards the human rights awareness of people at large

3. To help advance of research in the realm of human rights.

  

Programs 

  

Buraku Studies Research Group

 

A wide range of historical and theoretical research is undertaken in collaboration with people from various disciplines. The research consists of investigation of the origins of discrimination and suffering experienced by the poor and by the Buraku during the Middle Ages; the liberation movement, discrimination policies and the system for the poor during the Modern Ages; and, harmony in the workplace and the history of the liberation movement in present times.

 

Research of an applied nature tackles the analysis of the actual conditions of Buraku from the city and countrysides; the current state of Buraku industry and its problems; perceptions towards Buraku issues; the reexamination of educational freedom and enlightenment; and, the mass media and race. The Institute puts multi-angled research into practice in order to firmly grasp the current situation of Buraku discrimination and suffering, as well as to take the necessary measures towards helping to overcome such discrimination. 

 

1. The history of Buraku suffering and discrimination/The ideology of liberation

- Collection of Mori Sugio historical data

- Research from Buraku Temples

-. Buddhism and the ideology of liberation

2. Current state of Buraku discrimination / practical approaches to existing problems

- Buraku industry

- Perceptions held by younger generation Buraku

- Buraku discrimination and educational enlightenment

3. Buraku discrimination and women 

 

Ethnicity and Race Research Group 

 

This group focuses on the human rights issues regarding Korean residents, Ainu, Okinawans and foreign workers. 

 

This group investigates the increasing number of foreign workers in Japan in the face of an aging society and economic recession. This group investigates the working and living environments of foreign workers. Furthermore, the group studies the serious human rights problems in central Europe due to the anti-foreign workers movement. 

 

This group undertakes a comprehensive research on the problems encountered by the Indigenous Ainu race. This research is based on several field surveys conducted in designated regions in Hokkaido. It also draws on the problems of "New Ainu Law" and the action plan for Indigenous races created by the United Nations.

 

Also, the group examines the problems faced by North Korean and Korean immigrants in Japan in light of the overall problems encountered by foreign workers and minority groups. Multi-angled research investigates the history of their groupings and current living conditions. It also examines the legal implications of gaining the right to vote and the implicit cultural problems. 

 

1. Problems faced by North Korean and Korean immigrants in Japan : past and present

2. Problems faced by Okinawa

3. Assimilation of minority groups

4. Problems faced by foreign workers - research on foreign Workers and their working and living environments; and the education of children

5. Research on acquisition of several languages.

 

People with Disabilities Research Group 

 

This group researches on the protection of the rights of people with mental and physical disabilities and their welfare. It examines the integration of people with disabilities into mainstream society in accordance with the law on protecting their welfare. Research is undertaken on a number of areas: housing design for disabled people (including for the elderly), the medical treatment of disabled children, the education of children with disabilities and the education system itself, the integration of the physically handicapped into society, perceptions towards the students with mental disability by fellow students and the general public, and ways of developing physical education program that suits each type of disability

1. Investigation of disabled peoples' integration into society

2. Lifestyle environment and facilities for people with disabilities

3. Problems associated with the education of children with disabilities

4. The quality of life (Q.O.L) survey for people with disabilities

 

Women Studies Research Group

 

This group researches on women and the work force, and the problems facing female students seeking employment. The research focuses on the discrimination faced by female workers: large gaps in salary and promotion between men and women, the denial of maternity and menstrual leave, the general restriction on female workers to exhibit their abilities, sexual harassment, and the practice of forcing them to resign or have a change of area of work. On top of this, the reality for women is often that no matter how hard they strive for recognition, they are not given the chance to exhibit their abilities. The research aims to fully grasp the conditions of women in the Japanese business sector and, through the use of surveys, ascertain the extent of problems experienced by female students seeking employment.

 

Activities

 

Public lectures that are open to students, teaching staff and the general public.

 

Special Concerns

 

Publications

 

Bulletin of the Institute of Human Rights Studies
Institute of Human Rights Studies Newsletter
 

Other Information

The Institute has a collection of materials dealing with human rights issues held in the institute which can be accessed by all staff and students of the university.

 

 

Address

  

The Institute of Human Rights Studies

- Kansai University

3-3-35 Yamate-cho, Suita-shi, Osaka 564-8680 Japan

ph: (816) 6368-1182

fax: (816) 6368-0081

e-mail: jinkenken[a]jm.kansai-u.ac.jp; jinkenken[a]ml.kandai.jp

www.kansai-u.ac.jp/hrs

 

 

 

  

Institute of Global Concern (IGC)

- Sophia University 

 

 Year Established: 1981

 

 Short Historical Background

  

The Institute of Global Concern (IGC), formerly known as the Institute for the Study of Social Justice (ISSJ, Sophia University), was founded in April 1981. The Sophia Relief Service was founded in the same year to pursue practical relief activities.

 

 

 Objectives

  

IGC aims to raise the consciousness of students and the wider society regarding the promotion of social justice. IGC has sought to apply interdisciplinary inquiries into issues of justice in today's changing world to both the education of Sophia students and its practical activities (primarily refugee assistance).

 

 

 Programs and Activities

  

Annual international symposium - ever since its establishment, one of the IGC's primary research activities has been the organization of an annual international symposium. Every year, a pressing social problem of particular topical relevance to the day is selected as the theme, and symposium participants representing both Japanese and overseas universities, international organizations dealing with issues of human rights, refugees, or the environment (among others), and activists working in the field on a variety of issues gather to further interdisciplinary research exchange and, based in the Christian humanist approach, analyze issues from the viewpoint of humanity and human rights, and discuss how symposium findings can be directed to the promotion of social justice 

 

Course on "Refugees and Human Rights" - offered to all Sophia University students by IGC staff every other year (with an enrollment of approximately one hundred students), is among the educational activities organized by the IGC.

 

Open lectures - organized on a monthly basis, researchers or people working directly on a variety of social problems are invited as speakers. 

 

Sophia Relief Service - is a nationwide fundraising campaign to provide emergency relief and promote the economic self-sufficiency of both refugees in African countries and within Japan. This was started ever since the inception of IGC.

 

  

Special Concerns

 

Refugee issues were a topic of particular concern for the entire university at the time of the institute's establishment, and the IGC has consolidated a significant amount of information on refugee issues, both through its many years of on-site research activities concerning African refugees and its research into the problems surrounding Japan's policies concerning the acceptance of refugees.

 

In recent years, the IGC has explored more far-reaching issues concerning the protection of human dignity in the contemporary world, such as globalization, poverty and social exclusion, and freedom. The December 2007 27th annual International Symposium, for instance, was organized around the theme of "Globalization, Poverty and Social Exclusion in Developed Countries: First-hand Perspectives on the Homeless, 'Freeters,' and Migrant Workers," in order to study the negative effects of neo-liberal globalization on even such developed countries as Japan, South Korea, and France

 

 

 Publications 

 

Periodic publications

  • The Social Justice bulletin has been replaced by an online periodical named Global Concern
  • Sophia Relief Service newsletter - published twice yearly (in Japanese). In addition, the Institute produces a number of books in Japanese.

  

 

 Address

 

Institute of Global Concern (IGC)

L-713, Main Library

Sophia University

7-1 Kioicho, Chiyoda-ku

Tokyo, 102-8554 JAPAN

ph: (81-3) 3238-3023

fax: (81-3) 3238-4237

e-mail: i-glocon[a]sophia.ac.jp

http://dept.sophia.ac.jp/is/igc/en2/index.php  

https://ja-jp.facebook.com/IGC.Sophia/

 

 

 

Institute of Social Movement, Osaka


Year Established: 1978


Short Historical Background


The Institute of Social Movement, Osaka was established in 1978 to preserve and publish historical materials about labor and the social movement in Osaka, Japan. The Institute has collected historical books and documents of the social movement from late 19th century to present, including numerous pamphlets and minutes of trade unions. And it published nine volumes of comprehensive history of the social movement in Osaka, Japan. The volumes examine various social movements relating to labor unions, feminism, cooperativism, peace, and so on, during the drastic change of industry, economy, and society from 19th century to the 20th century. The Institute maintains the Monument of Social Movement in Osaka, founded by the labor unions in 1970, which gives tribute to the deceased activists who fought for liberty and justice.

 

Since 2000 the Institute was entrusted the management of a labor library by Osaka prefecture, to make the collection of the Institute and current books, magazines, statistics on labor issues, accessible to the public. But in 2008, the prefecture suddenly abolished the project and the financial support. But for the preservation of the people’s historical record, the Institute decided to restart the library and archive project by itself with contributions from the various organizations, unions, and individuals.


Objectives

 

The Institute aims
1. To collect and preserve historical records of the development of the industrial society and the people’s work in Osaka, compile them for the workers’ welfare, and make them available to the public
2. To collect and promote the exchange of information about labor for the improvement of labor-management relationship
3. To maintain the Monument of Social Movement in Osaka in order to commemorate the achievements of the activists in the past.


Programs and Activities


The Institute implements its programs and activities through the following:
• Osaka Labor Archive (L-Library): Osaka Labor Archive is a library and archive specializing in labor, collecting and preserving historical materials on labor issues, and making them available to the public. It currently has more than 100,000 items including unpublished documents and materials by labor unions and organizations.
• Research: the Institute takes part in several research projects with several universities on different subjects such as archives study, labor history, and oral history.
• Events: the Institute often holds various events such as exhibitions, lectures, seminars on labor issues.


Publication

 

  • History of Social Movement in Osaka, vols.1 - 9, 1986 - 2009.

 

Address


Institute of Social Movement
4F L-Osaka,
3-14 Kitahama-higashi,
Chuou-ku, Osaka
540-0031 Japan
ph: (81-6) 6947-7722
fax: (81-6) 6809-2299
e-mail: info[a]shaunkyo.jp
http://shaunkyo.jp

 

 

 

 

Kyoto Human Rights Research Institute 

 

 Year Established: 1994

 

 Short Historical Background 

 

Kyoto, since the establishment of Heian Kyo in 794, has assimilated various foreign cultures and developed its own culture which has a markedly international character. It also has a long history of concern for human rights. Given the background of Kyoto and looking toward the 21st century, it is indeed timely to establish the Human Rights Research Institute, as part of the commemorative projects of the 1200th anniversary of the establishment of Heian Kyo. 

 

The Kyoto Human Rights Research Institute is intended to become a center for research activities on human rights in Japan, and is expected to produce notable achievement in the study of this field.

   

 

 Objectives

  

The Institute aims

1. To conduct research on human rights issues at global as well as national levels,

2. To promote academic exchange with domestic and foreign research institutes in the field of human rights, and

3. To contribute to the promotion of understanding of these issues at home and abroad.

  

 Programs 

 

1. Research Program on International Human Rights Protection System

This program focuses on the systematic study of the development of the international standards on human rights promoted by the United Nations as well as by the various treaty bodies. It also analyzes the latest status of international human rights law.

 

2. Research Program on DOWA System

This program aims to study the serious violation of fundamental human rights and various discrimination in occupation, marriage, education and housing targeted at descendants of people who were economically, socially and culturally accorded low rank in Japanese society throughout history. This social problem is defined as DOWA problem or BURAKU discrimination. The program studies this issue employing historical and social perspectives. 

 

3. Research Program on Human Rights of Foreign Residents in Japan

Japan is often described as a racially homogeneous nation, but the island-country of Japan has developed its culture by accepting different races and different cultures since time immemorial. Today there are many foreign residents in Japan, such as Korean residents with the historical background of the colonial domination by Japan, as well as increasing number of foreign workers from various Asian and Latin American countries. These foreign residents present many problems in the Japanese society concerning lifestyle, education and qualification to stay in the country. The main purpose of this research program is to study the historical development of acceptance by Japan of these races and cultures so as to find a way to multi-racial coexistence.

 

4. Program on Human Rights of Women

This program studies how the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women is implemented. It also examines the history of the differentiation of roles based on gender and the actual condition of the equality of the sexes in the field of employment and public activities. In addition it inquires into the human rights, development and education of women in Japan and Asia. 

 

5. Research Program on Human Rights Education

This program aims to examine the achievements of the United Nations Decade for Human Rights Education (1995 – 2004) as well as the subsequent implementation of the World Programme for Human Rights Education (2005 – 2009) which focuses on human rights education in the primary and secondary school systems. It also studies the history and development of human rights education in Japan and other Asian countries.

 

 

 Activities 

 

The Institute undertakes the following activities

(1) Research and study concerning human rights problems as well as the promotion of international academic exchange

(2) Collection and presentation of documents and publications concerning human rights

(3) Publication of books and organizing of lectures to disseminate the results of human rights research

(4) Other projects which are necessary to achieve the objectives of this Institute.

 

  

 Special Concerns

  

  • International human rights protection systems (surveying the regular reports made to the UN Human Rights Committee under article 40 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights);
  • Buraku issue (the situation of outcast groups in the process of historical change; from ancient to early-modern, and from the Meiji period to present);
  • Human rights of foreign residents in Japan (mainly Koreans in Japan as well as new comers from Asian and Latin American countries);
  • Human rights of women (mainly employment patterns and wages in Japan and Asia);
  • Human rights education in Japan and abroad at various levels.

  

 Publications

  • Periodic publications
  • Bulletin
  • Annual Report
  • GLOBE

 

 

Address  

 

Kyoto Human Rights Research Institute

(Sekai Jinken Mondai Kenkyu Sentaa)

Kyoei-Karasuma Bldg.

Karasuma-Nijo-agaru, Nakagyo-ku,

Kyoto 604-0857 Japan

ph: (81-75) 231-2600

fax: (81-75) 231-2750

e-mail: jinken[a]khrri.or.jp

www.khrri.or.jp/english/

 

 

 

Mekong Watch 

 

Year Established:1993

  

Short Historical Background

  

Mekong Watch was established in 1993 as a network of seven Japanese organizations that were concerned about the role of Japan in the development of the Mekong Region. Plans for several hydropower projects in Lao PDR, a controversial export of agricultural chemicals to Cambodia from Japan, and various initiatives in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) framework of the Asian Development Bank were causes for concern. In 1998, Mekong Watch became an independent non-governmental organization (NGO) with its own membership and institutional structure. Its activities include research, information production and distribution, and advocacy.

 

 

Objective

  

Mekong Watch aims to create a framework that ensures that the views and opinions of affected communities are respected and lessons learned from past projects are reflected at every stage of development in the Mekong Region. 

 

 

Programs and Activities 

 

Mekong Watch's activities are largely divided into three categories:

 

1) Research - this includes investigative research regarding specific development projects being monitored, field research, and research on various government policies. Project-specific research usually involves interviews and networking with local communities affected by the development projects to document precisely what kinds of impacts they will (or are already) facing. For example, Mekong Watch did a survey of refugees from Burma who were familiar with the human rights situation around a hydropower plant to be repaired with Japanese development aid. It also worked with Thai NGOs and local community leaders to collect information about the impacts of the Samut Wastewater Treatment plant, which is being built with Japanese and Asian Development Bank (ADB) financing.

 

Field research has included a study of ichthyic biodiversity in the Mekong River, a study of inland fisheries and livelihoods on the Ing River in Thailand, and community forestry and participatory forest management in Laos. Policy-related research has focused on the inspection functions of multilateral development banks, environmental guidelines (particularly relating to the Japan Bank for International Cooperation), and the new information-disclosure policy which went into effect in Japan in April 2001. 

 

2) Resource Development and Outreach - this aims to disseminate the outcomes of the research and monitoring activities, and to promote information exchange among key stakeholders. It is also aims at drawing the media's attention to problematic development projects and the need for policy reform in the Japanese government, particularly in relation to development initiatives in the Mekong Region. Mekong Watch publishes a quarterly journal, hold public seminars, international symposiums, and coordinate study tours to Thailand.

 

Mekong Watch has Mekong Library, with books, papers, magazines, and other printed materials on issues related to development in the Mekong Region. Its expanding network with academics and students in Japan is also a resource to be drawn upon when academic expertise is required.

 

3) Advocacy - this has two main purposes. One is to bring the voices of people affected by Japanese-financed development projects in the Mekong Region to relevant decision-makers in Japan. The other is to facilitate policy and institutional reform. Information from the research and networking of Mekong Watch back up its policy proposals. Mekong Watch believes that it is necessary to create a decision-making system for development planning that includes the local people from the earliest stages. Its advocacy work strives to reform the current decision-making patterns so that the needs of communities are accurately reflected and respected in final decisions. 

 

Mekong Watch has country projects including Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, and China (Yunnan).

 

Publications

 

In English: 

  • MeREM Project Report (III): Transboundary Environmental Issues in the Mekong River Basin: Perspectives from Civil Society & Recommendations for MeREM. 2005.
  •  Protect Yourself from Destructive Development: Handbook on JBIC's New Environmental and Social Guidelines. 2004.
  • Lancang-Mekong: A River of Controversy. 2003.
  • Development, Environment and Human RIghts in Burma/Myanmar: Examining the Impacts of ODA and Investment. 2001, 

 

 

Address

 

Mekong Watch

(Tokyo Office)

2F Maruko Bldg. 1-20-6 Higashi Ueno

Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0015, Japan

ph: (813) 3832 5034

fax: (813) 3832 5039

e-mail: info[a]mekongwatch.org

www.mekongwatch.org 

 

 

 

Research-Action Institute for the Koreans in Japan (RAIK) 

 

 Year Established: 1974

  

 Short Historical Background and Objectives

  

The Research-Action Institute for the Koreans in Japan (RAIK) was established in February 1974 as an affiliate of the Korean Christian Church in Japan (KCCJ). The Institute undertook research and action mainly in relation to the protection of human rights and civil liberties of resident Koreans in Japan. But it has expanded its work to include the rights of foreign migrant workers and other foreign residents in Japan. The Institute is supported by donations from the Korean Christian churches and schools. 

 

 

 Programs and Activities 

 

  • Collection of documents and other materials on the human rights and civil liberties of resident Koreans and other foreigners in Japan and provision of such information to Christian organizations, researchers, lawyers and civil society groups 
  • Research on human rights situation of ethnic minorities in Japan 
  • Organization of annual seminars and lectures to promote human rights education in schools, based on Christian principles.

 

RAIK manages the secretariat for several citizens’ groups working for the revision of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, the provision of support for the residential areas of foreigners, the petition to the Japanese government for a policy supporting foreign schools, and implementation of the international human rights standards in Japanese society.

  

 

 Special Concerns

 

 Publications 

 

• RAIK Bulletin (bi-monthly)

 

 Other Information

 

 Address

  

The Research-Action Institute for the Koreans in Japan (RAIK)

Nishi-Waseda 2-3-18-52

Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo 169-0051

Japan

ph (813) 3203-7575

fax (813) 3202-4977

e-mail: raik[a]kccj.jp

  

 

Research Center for Human Rights (RCHR)

Osaka Metropolitan University 

 

 Year Established:1972 

 

 Short Historical Background 

 

The Research Center for Human Rights (RCHR) is the former Dowa Mondai Research Institute of the Osaka City University (now Osaka Metropolitan University since 2022), the first academic research facility for minority issues in Japan. The Institute was established in 1972 to focus on the rights of discriminated Japanese, the so-called Burakumin. It was renamed into Research Center for Human Rights to research on broader human rights issues. RCHR now covers, in addition to the issue of Burakumin discrimination, gender, ethnic, disability and other minority/human rights issues.  

 

Dowa Mondai (or Buraku Mondai) signifies the issues concerning a minority group unique to Japanese society. Burakumin are the people whose ancestors were relegated to an outcast status in the pre-modern era. Having no distinguishing physical or cultural traits, today Burakumin are distinguished by their residence in communities called Buraku (or Dowa districts) which were segregated in the pre-modern era, or by their ancestral background which is recorded in family registers. Burakumin continue to face discrimination and suffer from low socio-economic status.

 

 

 Objective 

 

RCHR aims to undertake research on a broad range of issues affecting the Japanese society at present, namely, Burakumin discrimination, gender, ethnic, disability and other minority/human rights issues. 

 

 

 Programs and Activities 

 

Following the research approach of the Institute since 1972, RCHR has been employing quantitative and qualitative research methods in its numerous surveys concerning minority populations, such as social changes in minority communities and social consciousness of minority/human rights issues.

 

It also collects survey reports, books, materials, and other kinds of information on gender/minority/human rights issues - in both Japanese and English languages. 

 

Researchers and students seeking information on gender/minority/human rights issues in Japan are welcome to visit us. Please refer to our website for additional information.

 

 Special Concerns

 

  • Gender/Minority/Human Rights Issues in Japan
  • Gender, Minorities and Group Relations in Japan
  • Discrimination/Prejudice against Minorities
  • Socio-economic Status of Minorities
  • Educational Attainment of Minorities
  • Social changes in Minority communities
  • Government Policies on Human rights and Minority Issues

 

 Publications

 

The Journal of Human Rights (annual) - Japanese language 

 

Address 

Research Center for Human Rights (RCHR)

Osaka Metropolitan University

3-3-138 Sugimoto Sumiyoshi-ku Osaka City, Osaka 558-8585 Japan

ph (816) 6605-2035

fax (816) 6605-2035

e-mail: furukubo[a]rchr.osaka-cu.ac.jp

www.rchr.osaka-cu.ac.jp

 

 

 

 

Shimin Gaikou Centre (Citizens' Centre for Diplomacy) 

 

 Year Established:1982

  

 Short Historical Background 

 

The Shimin Gaikou Centre (Citizens' Diplomatic Centre for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples) is a grassroots human rights non-governmental organization (NGO) founded in March 1982 by a group of citizens and students who participated in a big wave of support for the 2nd United Nations Special Session for Disarmament held in New York. Since 1987, the Centere has been sending delegations to the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in Geneva along with the Ainu delegations. In 1996, it began supporting the participation of the Okinawa/Ryukyu people in the Working Group. As a result of these activities, in 1999, the Centre became the first Japanese grassroots NGO to be given special consultative status by the UN Economic and Social Council. 

 

  

 Objectives 

 

The Centre focuses on peace, human rights, environment and development issues internationally. From the beginning, it supported indigenous peoples and their human rights, that had long been ignored in Japanese society, in cooperation with indigenous peoples' organizations and other support NGOs. In particular, the Centre developed good programs with the Ainu people, the Okinawa/Ryukyu people and the small-island-nations in the South Pacific. Furthermore, the Centre strongly supports establishing a network to share core information and to show solidarity among related NGOs. It was a founding member of the International Human Rights NGO Network (1990), and the Japan NGO network on UN Reform (2005) respectively. 

 

 

 Programs and Activities 

 

a. Peace Scholarship for Indigenous South Pacific Islanders - to support the people in the small-island countries of the South Pacific in their quest for nuclear-free zone, their demand for conservation of the environment, and their policy on sustainable development through the traditional way, the Centre established the Peace Scholarship for their secondary school students. This scholarship program has been well-managed in Vanuatu for over twenty years.

 

b. Support for Indigenous Peoples' Participation in United Nations (UN) Human Rights Programs - to financially and technically support the participation of indigenous peoples in the meetings of the United Nations human rights organs, including the Working Groups on Indigenous Populations, Human Rights Committee, the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, and newly-established Human Rights Council, and to monitor the promotion of human rights of indigenous peoples, the Centre sends its delegation annually to their sessions/meetings. 

 

c. Assistance for the Dissemination of Human Rights Ideas and Indigenous Cultures - in support of the UN Decade of Human Rights Education (1995 - 2004) and the World Programme for Human Rights Education, the Centre has provided and still provides financial assistance in the translation of international human rights documents into the languages of the indigenous peoples in Latin America and Asia.

 

d. Networking among related NGOs - in addition to close cooperation with NGOs which deal with the issues related to indigenous peoples and human rights, the Centre has actively been involved in establishing and keeping NGO networks or coalitions in Japan. It is the core founding member of the International Human Rights NGO Network, the Japan Citizens' Coalition for the UN International Decade of the World Indigenous Peoples, and the Japan NGO Network on UN Reform. It also worked as a core NGO in the Japanese NGO Coalition Durban 2001 at the UN World Conference against Racism held in South Africa in 2001. 

 

e. Workshops and Public Meetings to Report the Results of UN Meetings - the Centre holds workshops and public meetings in Hokkaido, Tokyo and Okinawa to report the results of UN meetings and international conventions on indigenous peoples' rights. 

 

 

 Special Concern

  

In 2007, the United Nations (UN) Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was successfully adopted at the UN General Assembly. The Centre has been making maximum effort to disseminate the existence and the meaning of the Declaration in Japan and Asia and to promote the implementation of stipulated rights in the Declaration for the Ainu people and the Okinawa/Ryukyu people. Furthermore, the Centre has been active as a member of Peace & Human Rights Unit of the 2008 G8 Summit NGO Forum since 2007 to pressure the G8 countries and the 2008 Toyako summit on a number of human rights issues from the viewpoint of indigenous peoples.

  

 

 Publications

  • Annual Report (once a year, Japanese) 
  • Japanese translations of UN materials about the rights of indigenous peoples (booklets and CDs)

 

 

 Address

 

Shimin Gaikou Centre (SGC)

3-35-13-204 Higashi-Komatsugawa

Edogawa-ku Tokyo 132-0033 Japan

ph/fax: (813) 5662-0906

e-mail: peacetax[a]js2.so-net.ne.jp; shimingaikou[at]hotmail[dot]com

www.shimingaikou.org/

www.facebook.com/ShiminGaikouCentre/

 

 

  

 

Tokyo Metropolitan Human Rights Promotion Center (TMHRPC)

  

 Year Established: 1998

  

 Short Historical Background

  

The Tokyo Metropolitan Human Rights Promotion Center (TMHRPC) was established on 16 July 1998 as a foundation to enhance Tokyo citizens' awareness of human rights through the execution of various activities such as education, promotion, and the protection of human rights, with the overall objective of solving human rights problems as represented by the Dowa problem (discrimination against a section of Japanese population). 

 

The Tokyo Metropolitan Dowa Work Promotion Society (TMDWPS), the forerunner to the Center, was established in April 1971 as an affiliated organization of TMG to solve the Dowa problem, a national problem concerning fundamental human rights, in accordance with the promulgation of the Special Law of Dowa Work (effective 10 July 1969). TMDWPS played an important role in education and promotional activities, and took a complimentary role to that of the TMG in promoting Dowa work (anti-discrimination work). 

 

At the same time, in today's society, various kinds of human rights problems such as discrimination based on sex, ethnicity or race, violations of children's rights, and discrimination against the disabled, set an important task to the whole of society.

 

With this change in the social environment, in December 1997, TMG formally decided to merge Tokyo Metropolitan Industry and Labor Hall (TMILH) which was directly managed by TMG to promote Dowa work, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Dowa Work Promotion Society (TMDWPS) to form the Tokyo Metropolitan Human Rights Promotion Center. This was in response to the direction being taken by the central government as shown in the Recommendation by the Consultative Council on Regional Improvement Measures (May 1996) and Domestic Action Plan Concerning the UN Decade of Human Rights Education (July 1997).

 

  

Objectives

 

Commencing with the Dowa problem, TMHRPC aims to actively develop educational, promotional and consultation activities related to the realization of human rights. 

 

 

Programs and Activities 

 

TMHRPC is actively promoting education and understanding, and holding consultations, with the aim of solving problems concerning human rights including the Dowa problem.

  

Promotional Activities

 

1. Provides year-round radio programs and special radio spot broadcasts during Human Rights Week.

2. Creates and posts Human Rights Awareness posters, distributes book covers to bookstores, makes and distributes postcards and other promotional goods. All goods are printed with human rights slogans on them.

3. Participates in national human rights festivals, and supports lecture meetings, movie-screenings and panel displays during Human Rights Week. 

 

Education and Consultation

 

1. Introduces human rights education lecturers to private organizations that hold human rights education classes

2. Gives general consultation and judicial consultation, the latter being executed by experts

3. Holds lecture courses for Tokyo citizens and office workers, given by experts.

  

Information Gathering, Sharing and Publishing

  

1. Lends books, videos and 16mm films on human rights

2. Publishes video, pamphlets,magazine

4. Lends out rooms for courses and lecture meetings for a fee.

 

 

Publications

  

  • TOKYO JINKEN (human rights) magazine –quarterly
  • Animation video and pamphlet on the Dowa Problem

 

 

Address

 

Tokyo Metropolitan Human Rights Promotion Center

1-1-6 Hashiba, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Japan. 111-0023

ph: (813) 3876-5371

fax: (813) 3874-8346

e-mail: info[a]tokyo-jinken.or.jp

www.tokyo-jinken.or.jp

 

 

Tottori City Information Center for Human Rights


Year Established: 1999


Short Historical Background


In 1997, the second “General Plan of Tottori City Dowa Measures” was adopted by the city government. The plan organized a new order, considering how to effectively promote a variety of challenges on human rights. In 1999, the Tottori City Information Center for Human Rights was established aiming to play a key role on solving human rights issues.


Objectives


Tottori City Information Center for Human Rights aims to contribute to the implementation of vision of a “city respectful of human rights with no discrimination” through activities incorporating citizen
participation methods, and resolving human rights problems.


Programs and Activities

 

  • Research and Study – collect human rights documents, information on social, economic and cultural situations in Japan, and materials on human rights education. (Books and DVDs can be borrowed.) The collected information are practically used in the Center’s reports, proposals and publications.
  • Education and Training – organize human rights training programs, manage lectures intended for residents of Tottori, and hold seminars to cooperate with support members of the Center.
  • Educational Consulting - arrangements of educational activities at regional offices, communities and schools.
  • Publications – publication of the monthly newsletter Rights (Lights), the title means light for human rights and human rights as light, twice a year magazine Kakehashi (“kakehashi” means we want to act as an intermediary between countries, peoples and associations.)


Address


Tottori City Information Center for Human Rights
151 Saiwai-cho Tottori-city, Tottori 680-0823 Japan
ph: (81857)24-3125
fax: (81857)24-3444
e-mail: info[a]tottori-jinken-joho-center.or.jp
www.tottori-jinken-joho-center.or.jp

 

 

  

Tottori Prefectural Center for Universal Culture of Human Rights 

 

 Year Established: 1997

 

 Short Historical Background

  

The Tottori Prefectural Ordinance to Create a Pro-Human Rights Society enacted in 1996 was the driving force in promoting human rights and civil liberties in Tottori Prefecture. Since then, the prefecture launched several human rights initiatives regarding the Buraku issue, women's rights, rights of people with disabilities, child rights, rights of the elderly, migrant rights, and other issues. One of the outcomes of these efforts, thanks to the inter-prefectural and NGO collaborations, was the establishment of the Tottori Prefectural Center for Universal Culture of Human Rights in 1997. The Ministry of Justice registered the Center in 1999.

  

 

 Objectives

  

The Center aims to implement the objectives of the Tottori Prefectural Ordinance for Creating a Pro-Human Rights Society and the subsequent Tottori Prefectural Policies on Human Rights in creating a society where human rights and civil liberties are respected. The Center's objectives are reflected in its activities under the Human Rights Development, Consultation Services, Leadership Training and Development, Research and Study, Dissemination of Information, and Networking programs.

  

 

Programs and Activities

  

Research and Study – consist of data collection and analysis on particular themes. Information is then disseminated through the Center's reports, proposals, and publications.

 

Training - aims to promote awareness of human rights, develop human rights and civil liberties programs and activaties, and provides training for lecturers and teachers on human rights education.

 

Promoting Human Rights Awareness - aims to promote human rights awareness through the Center's bulletins, webpage, human rights space (Hiroba 21 Furatto), teaching materials and booklets, lectures, panel exhibitions, and other events featuring lecturers and specialists on human rights. 

 

Networking - the Center co-organizes and participates in meetings and events throughout the prefecture that emphasize communication and exchange of ideas and information between different groups and individuals concerned with human rights and civil liberties 

 

Consultation Services - the Center carries out consultation services and meetings with the help of human right specialists. Consultation Service by telephone is also a provided. Moreover, there is a monthly, free legal consultation with lawyers who are affiliated with the Center.

 

Tottori Prefectural Human Rights Space (Hiroba 21 Furatto) - the Center manages a facility (called Hiroba 21) which accommodates a human rights library, and areas that are often rented as space for meetings, discussion panels, exhibitions, lectures, and study sessions.

 

  

 Publications 

 

  • Tottori Prefectural Center for Universal Culture of Human Rights' Bulletin (three times a year)
  • Human Rights Development Booklet (12 issues as of June 2008)
  • A collection of documented personal accounts on experiences related to human rights and civil liberties
  • Privacy and Our Lives (Puraibashi to watashitachi no kurashi) (2007) 

 

 

 Address

 

Tottori Prefectural Human Rights Space - Hiroba 21 Furatto

Tottori Prefecture, Tottori City, Ougimachi 2, 680-0846

Japan

ph: (81-857) 21-1712, 21-1713

fax: (81-857) 21-1714

email: t-jinken[a]tottori-jinken.org

http://tottori-jinken.org/

 

 

 

Yokohama International Human Rights Center (YIHRC)


Year Established: 1994


Short Historical Background


The Yokohama International Human Rights Center was registered by the United Nations in 1994 and functions as a United Nations Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) based in Japan. The head office is located in Yokohama along with various other provincial offices in Hiroshima, Biwako, Shinshu, Yamanashi, Hyogo, Asuka, Yosakoi, Mie, Tottori and Kyoto.


Objectives

 

YIHRC is an organization established for the protection of human rights and the elimination of all forms of discrimination and operates on the principal concepts of “Peace, Human Rights, and Environment”. It renounces all forms of war and engages in activities to promote human rights-based peace and the protection of the environment.


Programs and Activities

 

YIHRC has recently formed an alliance with various other global United Nations NGOs and has begun to attend international conferences. It conducts various activities such as establishing a mobile human rights class for children, publishing a monthly magazine, hosting human rights awareness events, producing human rights awareness films and DVDs and engaging in investigations and research requested by local governments. It also functions to address environmental issues such as global warming and deforestation through a human rights perspective. Furthermore, it aims to engage in social work to address international issues such as poverty as well as national issues such as the employment of disabled, elderly and other disadvantaged people.


It undertakes the following activities:
Center List Center List • Human Rights Awareness
To increase awareness of the various detrimental environmental issues in society, YIHRC seeks to ensure that the community fully understands the importance of “human rights”, “life” and the “environment”.
It is also necessary to present and bring to light the reality of the various human rights infringements and environmental devastation that occurs in the international community as a corollary of wars. To instigate this awareness, YIHRC publishes a monthly magazine and holds mobile human rights class for children.
• Mobile Human Rights Class
The mobile human rights class began in the autumn of 1994 and has been held at a total of 1,760 schools and involving approximately 300,000 students. The mobile human rights class introduces
the humanitarian activities of doctors involved in groups such as Association of Medical Doctors of Asia (AMDA) and Doctors Without Borders, and promotes the importance of life.


Address

 

UN NGO Yokohama International Human Rights Center (YIHRC)
Eminensu Kouyousaka 101
3-98 Hanasaki-cho, Naka-ku
Yokohama, Kanagawa
231-0063 Japan
ph: (81-45-261-3855
fax: (81-45-261-4030
e-mail: ikiikikirakira[a]yihrc.jp
www.yihrc.jp/index.html

 

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