On October 23, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) held its FY2026 Memorial Service in front of the “Monument to International Cooperation” at its Ichigaya Headquarters. The memorial service is held annually to honor the memory of all those who lost their lives while involved in JICA projects and to reaffirm the organization’s commitment to conducting development cooperation while placing the highest priority on ensuring the safety and security of all those involved in international cooperation projects.
This year’s memorial service was attended by JICA President Akihiko Tanaka and other executives and staff members, as well as representatives from the Japan Overseas Cooperation Association (JOCA) and the Association for the Development of JICA Volunteers, and the families of JICA volunteers who passed away while on assignment.
In his address, Chairman Tanaka stated that development cooperation is of the utmost importance in overcoming complex crises, safeguarding human security, and supporting Japan’s prosperity and peace; he added that, in implementing such cooperation, protecting the lives and safety of all personnel involved in the projects is the top priority. He further emphasized that while each individual must take concrete actions to ensure their own safety, it is also essential to preserve the memory of past serious incidents within the organization and to maintain a strong resolve to ensure that such tragic events never happen again.
As we reflect on the long history of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA), which marks its 72nd anniversary this year, and the JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, which celebrate their 61st anniversary, as well as the extensive and tremendous support provided by all those involved in our projects, JICA will continue to advance its international cooperation efforts while placing the highest priority on human life and safety.
Monument to International Cooperation
“Working Together Toward a Better Future”
A group of JICA staff members initiated the construction of this monument to honor the achievements of those associated with JICA projects who have passed away, to carry on their work and spirit, and to renew their resolve to redouble their efforts. With the support and cooperation of nearly 1,900 individuals from Japan and around the world, as well as numerous affiliated organizations, who contributed to the fundraising effort, the monument was erected in 1993.
© Source JICA