JICA Holds 2026 Memorial Ceremony in remembrance of those who lost their lives during international cooperation activities
2026.10.30
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On October 23, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) held the 2026 Memorial Ceremony in front of the Monument for International Cooperation at its Ichigaya Headquarters. The ceremony is held every year to commemorate all those who have lost their lives in the course of JICA's operations, and to reaffirm JICA’s commitment to giving the highest priority nto the lives and safety of those involved in international cooperation activities.
The memorial ceremony was attended by JICA President Tanaka Akihiko and other JICA executives and staff, as well as representatives of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Association (JOCA), the Supporting Organization of JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV), and the family members of JOCV who lost their lives during their assignment.
At the memorial ceremony, President Tanaka stated that development cooperation is indispensable to overcoming compound crises, safeguarding human security, and maintaining Japan’s prosperity and peace, and that protecting the lives and safety of all those involved in JICA's operations is the highest priority in carrying out such cooperation. He further emphasized that every person must take concrete action to ensure safety. He also underscored the importance of preserving lessons learned from major incidents as part of the organization’s institutional memory and stressed JICA’s firm determination never to allow such tragedies to occur again.
Reflecting on the long history of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA), which marks its 72nd anniversary this year, and JOCV, which celebrates its 61st anniversary, as well as the extensive and invaluable support of all those involved, JICA will continue to advance international cooperation, placing the highest priority on the protection of human life and safety.
Monument for International Cooperation
“Toward a Better Future Together"
The monument was erected in 1993 with the contributions and support of nearly 1,900 people from Japan and around the world, as well as many related organizations, to remember the achievements of those who have fallen in the course of JICA's activities and to renew the determination to carry on the spirit of those who have passed away.
Flower offering by JICA President Tanaka
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