経済社会理事会調整セグメントにおける木村大使ステートメント

Thank you, Mr. Chair,
 
Let me explain Japan’s view on the topic of this session.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic threatens the hard-won gains of the international community under the 2030 Agenda, and what is more, it threatens the survival, livelihood and dignity of individuals on the ground. To tackle this crisis and build back better, we should embrace human security, which calls for people-centred, comprehensive, context-specific, and prevention-oriented responses that strengthen the protection and empowerment of all people and all communities, as an overarching concept. Japan believes that revitalization of the discussion on human security is essential, and we expect that the forthcoming special report on human security to be issued by UNDP will invigorate further discussions among the Member States.
 
To be more specific, in the area of health, the pandemic has taught us that securing global health as a global public good is imperative. Understanding the value of quality healthcare, Japan is determined to maintain its leadership to achieve universal health coverage (UHC). We will continue to lead discussions on UHC up to and beyond the High-Level Meeting on UHC in 2023. As for the imminent need to counter COVID-19, Japan will continue to supply vaccines to countries and regions in need, while steadily implementing our “Last One Mile Support” to ensure vaccination down to the last person.
 
In conclusion, we cannot overemphasize the importance of human security and UHC as we deal with this unprecedented challenge. We hope that these two concepts will be fully taken into account in ECOSOC meetings, including the Forum on Financing for Development and the High-Level Political Forum.
 
I thank you.