(2) Smooth Transition
A smooth transition from emergency assistance in the wake of a humanitarian crisis to
assistance for early reconstruction and further to development assistance for social stability
and development over the mid- to long-term is essential to ensure that refugees/IDPs, once
exposed to a humanitarian crisis, will be able to lead stable lives. Smooth transition is crucial
also in the context of helping refugees/IDPs to stand on their own feet again so that they will
not fall back into a situation in which they requires humanitarian assistance. Japan strives for
a smooth transition. This involves emergency assistance, including sending a Japan Disaster
Relief team, in parallel with research and other preparations for reconstruction assistance
immediately after the humanitarian crisis has occurred.
(3) Response to natural disasters
Natural disasters cause tremendous losses every year in many parts of the world. The Asian
region is most prone to natural disasters; a majority of disaster-affected people in the world
are concentrated in this region. Japan is no exception; it suffered unprecedented damage due
to the earthquake and tsunami in the Great East Japan Earthquake.
Damage caused by natural disasters disrupts development outcomes, impedes sustainable
development, and hinders human security in developing countries. That the poor are most
vulnerable to such disasters makes it all the more important to protect them from such hazards,
strengthen their preparedness, and build their capacity to cope with them.
The Government of Japan places the highest value on timely and effective delivery of
humanitarian assistance that meets the needs of people affected by a natural disaster.
Specifically, it works with the JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) to dispatch the
Japan Disaster Relief Team to save lives and deliver emergency relief supplies in a timely
manner. An optimal combination of these and other forms of assistance is sought for effective
and flexible emergency assistance.