Statement by Mr. ONO Sho, Minister in charge of Social Affairs, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations (Item 107, 108 and 109: Crime and Drugs), 79th Session of the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly

 

Thank you, Madam Chair.
 
Today, against a backdrop of technological innovation, transnational organized crime has expanded its sphere of activity, and the challenge of international drug control has become increasingly complicated, threatening people around the world, including the most vulnerable, as well as posing an obstacle to the SDGs.
 
Under these circumstances, Japan would like to reiterate the importance of the rule of law, which is a prerequisite for sustainable development as well as the maintenance of peace and security both at the national and international levels. In addition, Japan believes that a holistic approach focusing on the dignity of each person is indispensable to overcoming this situation. Human security, which seeks to protect and empower individuals, especially those in vulnerable situations, while respecting their dignity, can serve as a catalyst.
 
Madam Chair,
 
Japan has been working closely with international organizations such as UNODC to prevent and combat transnational organized crime, including through capacity-building in developing countries.
 
For example, in fiscal year 2023, Japan contributed approximately 11 million USD to UNODC for its projects aimed at addressing maritime crime in the Pacific region, Asia, and Africa, helping strengthen the capacity of maritime law enforcement and criminal justice institutions to address maritime crime, including crimes in the fisheries sector and human and drug trafficking.
 
Additionally, this February, Japan, in cooperation with IIJ and UNAFEI and led by Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, organized a workshop for law enforcement officers from South and Southeast Asian countries to improve technical capabilities and the protection of human rights during prosecution of terrorism cases.
 
These initiatives demonstrate that Japan is committed to continuing to promote the rule of law in Asia, the Indo-Pacific region, and beyond.
 
Madam Chair,
 
Japan co-sponsored the GA resolution “International Day for the Prevention and Fight Against All Forms of Transnational Organized Crime” adopted this March. This resolution aims to contribute to raising awareness of the threat posed by all forms of organized crime and to strengthening international cooperation. 
 
Furthermore, Japan is actively involved in the discussions of other multilateral frameworks, such as the G20 and the Global Coalition Against Synthetic Drug Threats, underscoring the importance attached to addressing transnational organized crime, including corruption and drug-related issues.
 
Madam Chair,
 
In conclusion, Japan is determined to work together with the international community to address crime and drug-related issues and will do its utmost to promote international cooperation to empower those under vulnerable situations, adhering to the key principle of the SDGs, “leaving no one behind.”
 
I thank you.