Toward Developing International Relations

Japan, in giving priority to its diplomatic relations with the United Nations, has maintained close co-operation with the United Nations in a variety of areas. The Japanese Ministry of Justice, for example, actively supports the activities of the United Nations Asia and Far East Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders(UNAFEI). Since its establishment in 1961, UNAFEI has accepted more than 2,300 practitioners in the field of criminal justice from 78 countries, to participate in its International Training Course.

The International Training Course provides participants with opportunities to gain relevant knowledge and experiences as well as to foster good working relationships with each other. Upon completing the course, the participants return to their respective countries or posts where they perform important functions, hold influential positions and implement their countries' policies regarding the maintenance of public order and safety, and the protection of civil rights. They also maintain close relationships with each other by exchanging information and sharing experiences so as to effectively perform their duties. Moreover, the participants likewise establish strong links with UNAFEI. On the basis of these relationships, ACPF structures its activities to promote policies and practices to combat crime internationally.

Criminal Justice: Essential work that often goes unnoticed

The job of preventing crime and rehabilitating offenders often goes unnoticed. Indeed, Insofar as the job is effective, it is not likely to attract much social attention. A safe society owes much to those who work in this field. Safe societies are essential requisites for people to pursue peaceful and productive lives. The Foundation contributes to this aim vis-a-vis international co-operation for the effective development of criminal justice policies and practices.

Protection of Public Security and Economic Development

In Japan, public safety is considered an essential component of society. Countries in Asia and the Pacific also realise the importance of public safety for promoting and sustaining their economic development. From the view point, they highly evaluate the social situation in Japan and strongly request Japan's co-operation in this domain. Moreover, the recent increase in translational crimes requires international co-operation in criminal justice. As the world becomes increasingly internationalised, people world-wide require quick and efficient means for global communication. New technology makes it possible to create human networks. Though such networking and co-operation, the role of ACPF becomes extremely vital, especially in the pursuit of important goals such as "Economic Development without Crime."

Inter-Dependency

Mr. Toshio Doko, the first ACPF Honourable President, often talked about Inter-Dependency. Without the security and prosperity of Asian countries, security and prosperity would never come to Japan. The problems of and related to crime in those countries eventually become the problems of Japan. Japan has to do its best to deal with and respond to these problems. regarding with its best efforts. ACPF genuinely desires "Prosperity without Crime." I would like to ask you for your sincere support of and co-operation with ACPF.