A report meeting on the Advocacy Event at the Diet Members’ Office Building in September 2024
Delivering Voices from the Field to Advocate for Changes
As symbolized by the policies of the Trump administration in the United States, there is a growing global trend to prioritize one’s own interests and even to become more defiant, without considering the long-term perspective of aspiring for a desirable world. Outright violence, exploitation, and conflict are driven by profit, and the monopolization of wealth and authoritarian politics are being incited. In response to this situation, there is a need for dialogue and compromise between the parties involved with an emphasis on human rights.
Activities and Achievements in 2024
Continuing to say ‘NO’ to the movement to “build a nation capable of war”
We continued our efforts to oppose the Official Security Assistance (OSA), a framework introduced by the Japanese Government in 2023 in which Japan provides weapons aid to other countries without charge. JVC participated in Advocacy Event at the Diet Members’ Office Building held in September and February organized by the “NGO No War Network.” We also lobbied members of parliament and the media, with this action being reported in multiple media outlets. At the ODA Policy Council, a forum for dialogue between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and civil society, we proposed agenda items related to the ODA, non-military principles, and the OSA. In addition to this, we collaborated with various JVC projects and participated in information dissemination and actions as a member of the #NoMoreBusinessWithTheMyanmarJunta campaign.
Achievements in 2024
Advocacy Event at the Diet Members’ Office Building
- “No to the militarization of international cooperation! The ‘semi-alliance’ with the Philippines that increases the risk of war” (NGO No War Network, September 18, 2024)
- Opinion exchange meeting on the Official Security Assistance (NGO No War Network, February 12, 2025)
2024/9/18 NGO No War Network Report Meeting *Japanese only
Information dissemination
- “The Changing Face of Japan’s International Aid,” Chapter 4 of the book Prepare for Peace, Not War (published in July, 2024)
- “Militarization of international cooperation: The ‘semi-alliance’ with the Philippines that increases the risk of war” (YouTube broadcast “Monthly JVC #35”, September 26, 2024)
- Participation in the Okinawa Peace Prize International Peace Symposium (October 20, 2024)
Action and statements
- Action in front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
On the 70th anniversary of international cooperation: Instead of ‘cooperation’ that benefits the Myanmar military, provide aid to those in need now!
(#NoMoreBusinessWithTheMyanmarJunta, October 1, 2024) - Joint appeal by NGOs calling on the international community to seek a ceasefire in Sudan
One year since the outbreak of conflict: Before it becomes too late for the humanitarian crisis in Sudan (April 12, 2024) - Joint statement
Calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and peace in Palestine (March 10, 2025).
Making an appeal with multiple NGOs working in Sudan
Calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and peace in Palestine
Voices and Messages
“No to war. Rise for peace. Oppose wars of aggression.”
Sharon CABUSAO-SILVA, A member of NGO Lila Pilipina
The Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) concluded between Japan and the Philippines in July 2024 is modeled on the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the United States and the Philippines. This, together with the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), effectively allows the US military to operate freely and transforms the Philippines into an enormous US military facility. As a junior partner of the United States in Asia, Japan signed an agreement with the Philippines similar to the VFA and is attempting to carry out its war plans in the region.
It is important that the people of Japan and the Philippines raise their voices together to express their anger and opposition to being drawn into America’s war plans. We must support each other and build strong solidarity. War brings death and destruction, impedes national development, and leads to sexual violence against women. No to war! I stand up for peace and oppose aggressive wars.
