Japans System of Official Development Assistance

Once the world's largest ODA provider, contemporary Japan seems much less visible in international development. However, this book demonstrates that Japan, with its own aid philosophy, experiences, and models of aid, has ample lessons to offer to the international community as the latter seeks new paradigms of development cooperation.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the start of Japan’s official development assistance (ODA) in 1954. This issue reflects on the characteristics of Japan’s international cooperation, which has pursued “capacity development” and “human security.” It also examines the goals of JICA as an international cooperation agency and the achievements and trust built with developing countries, while looking ahead to the future. It will highlight initiatives in two areas: transportation and health systems, as well as the bonds forged in Ghana and Mongolia, through the voices of the people involved.