Survey Questionnaire and Stimulus Materials

# Survey Introduction and Questionnaire (English Translation)

Thank you very much for your cooperation in this survey.

My name is Masatsugu Mikami, and I am a Lecturer at the Faculty of Global Management, Nagano Prefectural University.

This survey is being conducted with support from a Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), titled "A Quantitative Study of Administrative Accountability Theory Based on Behavioral Public Administration: Analysis of Evaluation Reports Using Machine Learning and Experiments" (JP23K18770), for which I serve as Principal Investigator. Among the many administrative documents published by government agencies, this study focuses on evaluation reports, and aims to examine "what kind of evaluation report resonates with and gains the understanding of the public," with the ultimate goal of improving administrative practice.

In this survey, each respondent will be randomly presented with one type of document (an evaluation report). After reading the document assigned to you, we will ask you about each evaluation item (shown in blue bold text, e.g., "[Evaluation Criterion 2: Outcomes of Activities by the International Organization Receiving the Contribution]"). Please answer honestly regarding your level of understanding of, and sense of conviction toward, the administrative activities described in the document.

**Notes for answering:**

① The questions will be shown after you have finished reading the entire document. Since you will not be able to refer back to the text while answering, you are welcome to take notes on each item as you go, so that you can look back on them later. You are also free to look things up on the internet, etc., while answering.

② This survey uses, as its source material, actual documents (evaluation reports on international organizations) published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

However, for the purposes of this study, some or all of the text has been modified by the researcher and/or through generative AI. Please note that responsibility for the content of the text presented in this survey lies with the researcher.

The data you provide will be strictly managed so that no personal information can be identified, and will be used for the following purposes only after being fully "anonymized":

- Presentation and publication for the purposes of research and improving administrative practice, including presentations at academic conferences and workshops, academic papers, and books (a presentation at the Japan Association for Political Science is planned in the near future)
- Publication and sharing of data on websites aimed at researchers and practitioners, for the purposes of research and improving administrative practice
- Use and publication as a data source for DX (digital transformation) and machine learning technologies aimed at improving administrative services, for the purposes of research and improving administrative practice (including the future release of trained models)

**Contact point for inquiries regarding personal information:** A dedicated contact point has been set up at https://www.mmikami.jp.

Your responses will provide valuable data for realizing an administration that is easier to understand and more attuned to the public.

We apologize for taking up your valuable time, and we thank you in advance for your cooperation.

---

## List of Questions

### Q1
Please select your highest level of education completed, or your current educational status, from the following. (Choose one)

1. Graduated from junior high school
2. Currently enrolled in high school
3. Graduated from high school
4. Currently enrolled in a vocational school
5. Graduated from a vocational school
6. Currently enrolled in a junior college
7. Graduated from a junior college
8. Currently enrolled in university (undergraduate)
9. Graduated from university (undergraduate)
10. Currently enrolled in graduate school (master's program)
11. Completed graduate school (master's degree)
12. Currently enrolled in graduate school (doctoral program)
13. Completed graduate school (doctoral degree)
14. Other
15. Prefer not to answer

### Q2
To what extent were you able to understand the content of the evaluation report?

1. Not understood at all
2. Not well understood
3. Neutral
4. Somewhat understood
5. Well understood

### Q3
After reading the explanation in the evaluation report, to what extent did you feel convinced by the government activities described in the report?

1. Not convinced at all
2. Not very convinced
3. Neutral
4. Somewhat convinced
5. Very convinced

### Q4
Which of the following evaluation criteria in the evaluation report helped to increase your sense of conviction? (Select all that apply)

- ☐ 1. Evaluation Criterion 1: Degree of contribution to the Japanese diplomatic policy objectives that this contribution aims to achieve
- ☐ 2. Evaluation Criterion 2: Outcomes of the activities of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution
- ☐ 3. Evaluation Criterion 3: Organizational and administrative/financial management of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution
- ☐ 4. Evaluation Criterion 4: Status of Japanese staff and posts, etc.
- ☐ None of these were helpful

### Q5
Following on from Q4, please tell us in more detail. Which of the following sections in the evaluation report helped to increase your sense of conviction? (Select all that apply)

- ☐ Overview of the recipient organization
- ☐ Overview
- ☐ Amount (of contribution)
- ☐ 1-1 (1) Diplomatic policy objectives
- ☐ 1-1 (2) Usefulness and importance
- ☐ 1-2 Status of maintaining/securing a position, etc., through which Japan's intentions can be reflected
- ☐ 1-3 Exchanges of dignitaries and policy dialogue
- ☐ 1-4 Contribution to Japan-related parties (Japanese companies, Japanese NGOs/NPOs, local governments, universities, etc.)
- ☐ 1-5 Summary of the contribution's overall contribution toward diplomatic policy objectives
- ☐ 2-1 Strategic objectives of the recipient organization
- ☐ 2-2 Efforts by the recipient organization to achieve its strategic objectives, and their outcomes
- ☐ 2-3 Japan's efforts related to the outcomes of the recipient organization's activities
- ☐ 3-1 Overview of the recipient organization's financial statements, etc.
- ☐ 3-2 Organizational and administrative/financial management of the recipient organization
- ☐ 4-1 Status of Japanese staff and posts
- ☐ None of these were helpful

---

This concludes the questions.

The survey results will be published at a later date, after being fully anonymized, on the researcher's website (https://www.mmikami.jp).

Thank you very much for your cooperation despite your busy schedule.

# Contribution to the Implementation Support Unit (ISU) for the Convention on Cluster Munitions, Hosted by the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD)

## Document A1 — Original (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Published Version)

### [Overview of the Recipient Organization]

In May 2015, the Implementation Support Unit (ISU) for the Convention on Cluster Munitions was established, hosted by the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD), an international non-profit organization working on mine action and explosive risk reduction with a focus on landmines, cluster munitions, and stockpiled ammunition. The ISU serves as the secretariat for the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which was created with the aim of eliminating cluster munitions, and its purpose is to provide direct and indirect support to States Parties in fulfilling their obligations under the Convention. As of April 2024, the Convention has 112 States Parties/regions.

This contribution is received by GICHD, with the ISU serving as the implementing body for the project.

### [Overview]

The Convention on Cluster Munitions comprehensively prohibits the use, development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, and transfer of cluster munitions, and obligates States Parties to destroy stockpiled cluster munitions and clear unexploded ordnance in areas contaminated by cluster munition remnants. It also provides for international cooperation and assistance, including victim assistance, with the aim of putting an end to the suffering and casualties caused by cluster munitions. The ISU undertakes various tasks to promote implementation of the Convention so that States Parties fulfill these obligations and the Convention is properly administered.

Contributions from States Parties and others, including Japan, are allocated to the ISU's operating expenses based on decisions made at the annual Meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions; this contribution is used to cover the ISU's personnel costs, travel expenses, and the like. Through support for the ISU, Japan seeks to ensure the effective operation of the Convention and to promote efforts by the international community, centered on States Parties, toward realizing a world free of cluster munitions.

Separately, Japan also bears mandatory assessed contributions to cover the costs of convening the Meeting of States Parties and other meetings related to the Convention on Cluster Munitions.

### [Evaluation Criterion 1: Degree of contribution to the Japanese diplomatic policy objectives that this contribution aims to achieve]

**1-1 (1) Diplomatic policy objectives (strategy, key policies, priority areas, etc.) that this contribution aims to achieve**

This contribution is positioned, within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' policy evaluation framework, as one of the means for achieving the medium-term goal set under "Basic Goal II: Diplomacy by Region and Field," "Policy II-1: Efforts toward International Peace and Stability," "Individual Field 9: Efforts toward Arms Control, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation," and "Performance Indicator 9-4: Efforts to Promote Arms Control and Disarmament of Conventional Weapons and to Enhance Transparency of Military-Related Information," namely, "to strengthen efforts that contribute to promoting arms control and disarmament of conventional weapons and to enhancing the transparency of military-related information." (See pages 177-179 of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' FY2023 Prior Policy Evaluation Analysis Sheet.)

**1-1 (2) Usefulness and importance of this contribution in achieving the goal in 1-1(1) above (including complementarity with other means, comparative advantage, irreplaceability, etc.)**

The harm caused by cluster munitions is regarded internationally as a serious humanitarian concern. Japan has positioned its response to the international problem of unexploded cluster munition remnants as an important policy issue spanning the fields of disarmament, humanitarian affairs, and development, and has been providing support for measures against unexploded ordnance. Following the signing of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (the Oslo Convention) in 2008, the First Meeting of States Parties was held in 2010, attended by a total of 120 countries including Japan. Through discussions on concrete measures related to the Convention's implementation (universalization of the Convention, destruction of stockpiled cluster munitions, clearance and destruction of cluster munition remnants, risk reduction education, victim assistance, etc.) and the drafting of outcome documents such as the "Vientiane Declaration" and the "Vientiane Action Plan," the States Parties' strong determination to put an end to the harm caused by cluster munitions was confirmed, and concrete guidance for States Parties' future implementation of the Convention was presented.

Since that meeting, Japan has continued to implement measures such as victim assistance and clearance of unexploded ordnance, while also continuing efforts to expand the number of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM). At the Eleventh Meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, held from September 11 to 14, 2023, Japan participated in discussions on these issues and highlighted its proactive efforts.

The Implementation Support Unit (ISU) serves as the secretariat of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, managing, providing, and disseminating information related to the Convention; maintaining and preserving records and documents of both formal and informal meetings; supporting the chair of the Meeting of States Parties and the co-chairs of each committee; and carrying out other Convention-related work at the request of States Parties, thereby fulfilling a role indispensable to the operation of the Convention. This contribution therefore leads to ensuring the effective operation of the Convention, which plays an important role in resolving the cluster munitions problem, and contributes to promoting disarmament and non-proliferation.

Moreover, Japan's support for the ISU also demonstrates to the international community Japan's serious commitment to the cluster munitions issue. It is complementary to Japan's support for unexploded ordnance countermeasures, and it is an irreplaceable means of supporting the ISU.

**1-2 Status of maintaining/securing a position, etc., through which Japan's intentions can be reflected in the recipient's decision-making process**

Meetings related to the Convention on Cluster Munitions are, in principle, held in plenary format with the participation of all States Parties, observer non-States Parties, international organizations, and civil society including NGOs, and decision-making is based in principle on consensus among States Parties. The right to speak is basically granted to all delegations in attendance, and if agreement is formed among States Parties, it is possible to have Japan's views reflected in the decisions of the meeting. Decisions on matters related to the annual budget proposal, the financial model, and the appointment of the Head of the ISU, among other matters related to the ISU's operation and mandate relevant to this contribution, are also entrusted to the Meeting of States Parties or the Review Conference. As a State Party, Japan participates in all relevant meetings and actively takes part in the decision-making process at the Meeting of States Parties or Review Conference, including on matters related to the ISU.

Ambassador Ogasawara, Japan's Representative to the Conference on Disarmament, attended the Eleventh Meeting of States Parties, expressing deep concern over the harm to civilians caused by cluster munitions occurring in various parts of the world, including Ukraine, and pointing to the importance of universalizing and promoting implementation of the Convention. He called on States Parties to further renew their determination toward a world free of the devastation caused by cluster munitions, and called on all non-States Parties to conclude the Convention at an early date. He also introduced Japan's efforts in areas such as unexploded ordnance clearance, victim assistance, and risk reduction education, and expressed Japan's commitment to continue working with other States Parties to promote implementation of the Convention.

In addition to the meeting itself, Japan has also engaged in individual exchanges of views regarding its efforts to promote universalization of the Convention, which Japan places importance on, as well as other efforts related to the implementation and operation of the Convention.

**1-3 Exchanges of dignitaries and policy dialogue with the recipient**

In July 2023, Ambassador Ogasawara, Japan's Representative to the Conference on Disarmament, visited the ISU secretariat and conveyed Japan's FY2023 contribution toward the ISU's operating expenses to ISU Head Moraga. In response, Head Moraga expressed gratitude for Japan's contribution to the ISU's operating expenses and stated that Japan's further contribution to the implementation of the Convention continued to be expected. Following this, an exchange of views was held regarding the ISU's activities and other matters.

In September 2023, Ambassador Ogasawara attended the Eleventh Meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions.

**1-4 Involvement in the recipient organization by Japan-related parties other than the Japanese government (Japanese companies, including procurement contractors; Japanese NGOs/NPOs; local governments; universities; individual members serving in a personal capacity; etc.), and the usefulness/importance of this contribution for these parties. Status of use of the contribution toward benefiting Japan-related parties, such as ensuring procurement opportunities for Japanese companies.**

The Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC), of which Japanese NGOs are also members, actively participated in the most recent Eleventh Meeting of States Parties, issuing statements on various agenda items. Civil society organizations may also hold side events during the meeting period by following prescribed procedures, allowing them to showcase and publicize their activities.

At the Eleventh Meeting of States Parties, side events were held by civil society organizations including Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor, Mine Action Review, Humanity & Inclusion, Mines Advisory Group, and the Danish Refugee Council.

**1-5 Summary of the contribution's overall contribution toward the diplomatic policy objective in 1-1(1)**

Japan is one of the world's top donors in support for measures against anti-personnel landmines, cluster munitions, and unexploded ordnance, and is promoting efforts toward realizing a world free of cluster munitions. As described in 1-1(2) above, the ISU, which serves as the secretariat of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, is indispensable to the operation of the Convention and to promoting its effective implementation. Supporting the ISU's work is an extremely effective means of demonstrating Japan's commitment to countering cluster munitions and unexploded ordnance to the world, and the international community's trust in Japan's commitment stems precisely from Japan's contribution to the secretariat, which is essential to the Convention's operation. Needless to say, this contribution is linked to the effective implementation of the Convention, and can be assessed as making a significant contribution to advancing Japan's cluster munitions countermeasures and to its diplomatic presence. Furthermore, as described in 2-1(2) below, gratitude for Japan's contribution was expressed at the Meeting of States Parties held during the evaluation period.

### [Evaluation Criterion 2: Outcomes of the activities of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution]

**2-1 (1) [Core contribution only] Strategic objectives of the recipient organization**

The "Lausanne Action Plan," the outcome document adopted at the most recent Second Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (held in two sessions, in November 2020 and September 2021), serves as the guideline for activities until the next Third Review Conference (scheduled for 2026). The plan sets out concrete actions that States Parties should undertake in areas such as destruction of stockpiled cluster munitions, clearance of unexploded ordnance, and victim assistance. States Parties work to implement the Convention in accordance with this plan, and progress is assessed at the annually held Meeting of States Parties.

The Second Review Conference also adopted the "Lausanne Declaration," a political declaration expressing States Parties' commitments. This declaration serves as a guideline for activities not only for States Parties to the Convention but also for international organizations and NGOs involved in the field of cluster munitions.

As the Convention's secretariat, the ISU aims to ensure that States Parties fulfill their obligations and that the Convention operates effectively.

**2-1 (2) [Core contribution only] Efforts by the recipient organization to achieve the strategic objectives in 2-1 above, and their outcomes**

In September 2023, the ISU, as the Convention's secretariat, convened the Eleventh Meeting of States Parties. At this meeting, participating countries discussed progress made since the Second Review Conference (held in two sessions in November 2020 and September 2021) in areas such as universalization of the Convention, destruction and clearance of stockpiled munitions, risk reduction education, victim assistance, and international cooperation, as well as issues such as extensions of implementation deadlines under the Convention. The meeting also reviewed the status of implementation of the "Lausanne Action Plan" adopted at the Second Review Conference. The Lausanne Action Plan sets out concrete actions to be undertaken by States Parties over the following five years in the areas of universalization of the Convention, destruction of stockpiled munitions, clearance and risk reduction education, victim assistance, international cooperation and assistance, transparency measures, and national implementation measures. With this action plan in mind, the Eleventh Meeting of States Parties included reports and discussions on matters such as each country's status of implementation of the Convention (including applications for extension of implementation deadlines), efforts by the Universalization Contact Group toward universalizing the Convention, efforts by the Stockpile Destruction Contact Group, efforts by the Victim Assistance Contact Group, and the Convention's financial status. At this Meeting of States Parties, Somalia and Laos expressed gratitude for Japan's contribution. Convening the Meeting of States Parties is an important opportunity to confirm progress toward the intended outcomes, and the ISU, as the secretariat responsible for convening such meetings, plays an indispensable role.

The ISU actively disseminates information externally, through its official website and social media, regarding discussions at the Meeting of States Parties and Review Conferences of the Convention on Cluster Munitions and other activities. In addition to working documents from the meetings, statements by each country and reports submitted pursuant to provisions of the Convention can be viewed, and pages showing the implementation status of each State Party are also provided, allowing access to detailed information on meeting summaries and the Convention's progress.

The Convention on Cluster Munitions permits other international organizations engaged in the field of cluster munitions countermeasures (the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), GICHD, and others), as well as international NGOs such as the Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC), which led the negotiating process for the Convention (the Oslo Process), and civil society groups including NPOs, to participate as observers in relevant meetings, making these meetings a venue for broad information sharing on the Convention's progress and the efforts of States Parties and the international community. The ISU provided logistical support to enable representatives of these organizations to participate in meetings related to the Convention on Cluster Munitions.

The ISU also continued to routinely share information and exchange views with GICHD, with which it has a host agreement, regarding the efficient operation of the Convention and matters related to the ISU's organizational structure.

**2-3 Japan's efforts related to Evaluation Criterion 2 (including the recipient's response as a result)**

Japan intends to continue promoting global efforts against cluster munitions, and in line with this direction, participates in the annually held Meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions and the Review Conference held once every five years, actively taking part in international discussions on the serious harm still caused by cluster munitions, their clearance, risk reduction measures, victim assistance, and the promotion of the Convention's implementation.

At the Eleventh Meeting of States Parties held in September 2023, Japan stated that, given the current severe international situation, the urgency of universalizing the Convention and promoting its implementation had increased more than ever, and that States Parties must further renew their determination toward a world free of the devastation caused by cluster munitions. Japan also introduced its support for unexploded ordnance countermeasures, implemented alongside anti-personnel landmine countermeasures, and highlighted the importance of the Convention and Japan's contribution.

Through its support for the ISU, which serves as the Convention's secretariat, Japan has been advancing the universalization and strengthening of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, while also leading international efforts in the field of cluster munitions countermeasures by actually implementing various forms of support for cluster munitions and unexploded ordnance countermeasures around the world. Support for the ISU is complementary to this support for cluster munitions and unexploded ordnance countermeasures, and together these play an indispensable role in demonstrating Japan's contribution to, and commitment toward, countering cluster munitions. In FY2023, Japan's support for anti-personnel landmine, cluster munition, and unexploded ordnance countermeasures totaled more than approximately US$57 million across a total of 18 countries and regions; this is recorded, together with the recipient countries, projects, and beneficiary organizations, in the annual report required under the Convention on Cluster Munitions, which is published on the website of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs.

### [Evaluation Criterion 3: Organizational and administrative/financial management of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution]

**3-1 Overview of the financial statements, etc. relating to this contribution**

3-1 (1) Fiscal year: January to December
3-1 (2) Month and year the financial statements were received (published by the recipient): June 2023 (for Japan's FY2022 contribution)
3-1 (3) Reason, if the report has not yet been received: Not applicable
 (Reference) Expected timing of receipt of the next report: June 2024 (for Japan's FY2023 contribution)
3-1 (4) Summary of the financial statements and audit results, etc.

The ISU prepares financial statements summarizing that year's activity targets, activities actually undertaken, and expenditures. Of the approximately 780,000 Swiss francs comprising contributions from various countries (including Japan) for 2022 combined with the carry-over from the previous year, approximately 530,000 Swiss francs was reportedly disbursed in 2022, with approximately 250,000 Swiss francs carried over to the following year. The reported carry-over serves as a buffer to address potential future budget shortfalls. This carried-over balance was approved at the Eleventh Meeting of States Parties in September 2023 to be incorporated into the following fiscal year's revenue.

Regarding external audit, MAZARS, a Swiss auditing firm, conducted the audit and concluded that the content of the financial statements complies with Swiss law.

Time is allocated at each year's Convention-related meetings (the Meeting of States Parties and the Review Conference) to discuss the ISU's organizational and operational structure. At the Eleventh Meeting of States Parties, the Head of the ISU presented the proposed 2023 budget and work plan, which were approved by the States Parties. Such procedures and discussions at relevant meetings contribute to strengthening the ISU's transparency and the stability of its operations.

**3-2 Organizational and administrative/financial management surrounding this contribution project (including governance, compliance, risk management, etc.)**

3-2 (1) Status of key efforts toward further improving organizational and administrative/financial management and overcoming challenges (status of formulation of reform visions, strategies, implementation plans, etc., and the status and results of implementation of reform plans, etc.)

Time is allocated at Convention-related meetings (the Meeting of States Parties and the Review Conference) to discuss the ISU's organizational and operational structure, and a system is in place for countries to examine the budget proposal and work plan presented by the ISU. The ISU cooperates with the ISUs of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (in force since 1983) and the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (in force since 1999), which share the same objective of prohibiting or restricting the use of certain conventional weapons, exchanging knowledge to promote efficient operation of the respective conventions and improve cost-effectiveness.

3-2 (2) Summary of and response to so-called improper conduct (including allegations raised from within or outside the organization, such as through international media reports) related to organizational and administrative/financial management

Not applicable.

3-2 (3) Japan's engagement and efforts toward overcoming the challenges described in 3-2(1) and 3-2(2) above

Japan actively participates in discussions each year at the Meeting of States Parties and once every five years at the Review Conference, from the perspective of the ISU's fiscal discipline and budget efficiency, contributing to strengthening its financial foundation while emphasizing the importance of the ISU's role to States Parties and highlighting the efficient execution of the budget.

### [Evaluation Criterion 4: Status of Japanese staff and posts, etc.]

**4-1 Status of Japanese staff and posts (professional-level and above; in principle as of the end of December 2023)**

4-1(1) Change in the number of Japanese staff (including Japanese senior staff)

Number of Japanese staff over the past three years (including Japanese senior staff), within the scope of the contribution (ISU): 2020, 2021, 2022, average — 0, 0, 0, 0, and change of 0.
(Reference) Total staff: 2.5 persons. *The staffing level is 2.5 persons, comprising two full-time staff members, including the Head, plus a part-time staff member counted as "0.5 person."

**4-2 Reasonable grounds, if this contribution is not to be treated as subject to evaluation under Criterion 4**

Since the ISU's operating expenses are funded by contributions from States Parties, the staffing level has been kept as small as possible—resulting in a complement of 2.5 persons—in order to minimize the burden on States Parties and to prioritize being an efficient organization. Given that the secretariat has already reached an appropriate and necessary staffing level, and that there are currently no vacancies, this does not lend itself to a goal of increasing Japanese staff numbers.

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## Document A2 — AI-Simplified Version

### [Overview of the Recipient Organization]

**International Efforts to Eliminate Cluster Bombs**

Around the world, a very dangerous weapon called the cluster bomb is being used, and unexploded remnants are being left behind. Cluster bombs scatter many small bombs over a wide area at once, and they can cause great harm by catching ordinary people up in the damage.

To eliminate these cluster bombs, an international agreement was created. The organization that supports countries in keeping this agreement is called the "Implementation Support Unit (ISU) for the Convention on Cluster Munitions."

The ISU is housed within an organization called the "Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD)," located in Geneva, Switzerland. GICHD is an international group working to eliminate dangerous items such as landmines and cluster bombs.

The ISU supports the countries that have committed to the agreement to eliminate cluster bombs. Specifically, it provides information to help countries keep their commitments and gives advice to countries that are struggling.

As of April 2024, 112 countries and regions are taking part in this agreement to eliminate cluster bombs.

When money is used for this effort, it is received by an organization called GICHD, and the organization that actually carries out the activities is the ISU.

### [Overview]

A weapon called the cluster bomb scatters small bombs over a wide area at once, so many of the bombs that were used remain unexploded afterward, putting people in danger for a long time. This Convention comprehensively bans the use, development, production, and possession of cluster bombs, among other things, in order to eliminate the harm caused by them. It also sets out rules for destroying stockpiled cluster bombs, clearing unexploded ordnance in areas where cluster bombs remain, supporting victims, and providing international cooperation and assistance.

The ISU (Implementation Support Unit) carries out various activities to make sure this Convention is properly observed and effectively carried out. Specifically, it takes on a wide range of support tasks so that the countries that have signed the Convention fulfill their obligations and the Convention is run appropriately.

Contributions from countries that have signed the Convention, including Japan, are decided at a meeting held once a year and used as expenses needed for the ISU's activities. This contribution is mainly used for the personnel costs of people working at the ISU and for travel expenses related to its activities. Through its support for the ISU, Japan is helping to ensure the Convention is run effectively and is backing the efforts of the international community, centered on the countries that have signed the Convention, to achieve a world free of cluster bombs.

Japan also bears the costs of hosting the Meeting of States Parties and other matters related to the Convention on Cluster Munitions. Through this support, Japan is actively contributing to international efforts to eliminate the harm caused by cluster bombs and to make the world a safer place.

### [Evaluation Criterion 1: Degree of contribution to the Japanese diplomatic policy objectives that this contribution aims to achieve]

**1-1 (1) Diplomatic policy objectives that this contribution aims to achieve**

This money is used as part of Japan's diplomatic efforts to protect peace and security in the world. In particular, it plays a very important role in solving the problems caused by a weapon called the cluster bomb.

*Diplomatic goals: world peace and security, disarmament, and transparency of information*

As a member of the international community, Japan has a responsibility to contribute to world peace and stability. Cluster bombs are weapons that scatter many small bombs over a wide area at once; they tend to leave behind unexploded ordnance, and the harm to ordinary people never ceases. For this reason, banning the use of cluster bombs and eliminating them entirely leads to world peace and stability.

Japan also plays a role in reducing weapons such as nuclear weapons and cluster bombs, and in promoting arms control and disarmament. In addition, making military-related information public and increasing transparency deepens mutual understanding within the international community and helps prevent conflict.

This money is used as one of the means to achieve these goals.

**1-1 (2) Usefulness and importance of this contribution**

The problem of cluster bombs is taken very seriously by the international community as a major humanitarian issue. To help solve this problem, Japan signed the Convention banning the use of cluster bombs (the Oslo Convention) in 2008, and has since been actively engaged in activities such as clearing unexploded ordnance and supporting victims.

For the Convention to be properly observed and to function effectively, the existence of a secretariat called the "Implementation Support Unit (ISU)" is essential. The ISU plays an important role in supporting the operation of the Convention, by providing information related to the Convention, preparing for meetings, and supporting the countries that have signed it.

Japan's support for the ISU shows the international community that Japan is seriously committed to the cluster bomb issue. Supporting the ISU's activities also helps make Japan's own support activities, such as unexploded ordnance countermeasures, even more effective. Supporting the ISU is an indispensable means of solving the cluster bomb problem.

In other words, this money plays an extremely important role in eliminating the harm caused by cluster bombs and achieving a safer world.

**1-2 Status of maintaining/securing a position through which Japan's intentions can be reflected**

*Japan's opinions are reflected in the Convention's decisions*

Meetings related to the Convention on Cluster Munitions are attended not only by countries that have signed the Convention, but also by countries that have not yet signed it, as well as by international organizations and civil society groups such as NGOs. Decisions at these meetings are, in principle, based on agreement among the participating countries.

At the meetings, essentially any participating delegation can express its opinion. Therefore, if the countries that have signed the Convention reach agreement, Japan's opinion can also be reflected as a decision of the meeting.

Important matters related to the Convention's operation—such as the annual plan for how money will be used, how money is managed, and personnel decisions for the head of the secretariat—are decided at meetings of the countries that have signed the Convention. As a country that has signed the Convention, Japan attends all of these meetings and actively expresses its views.

For example, at a meeting held in 2023, a Japanese representative expressed strong concern about harm caused by cluster bombs occurring around the world, and called on countries that have not yet signed the Convention to do so as soon as possible. Japan also introduced its own efforts, such as clearing unexploded ordnance and supporting victims, and stated that it would continue its activities to help ensure the Convention is upheld.

Beyond the meetings themselves, Japan also holds individual exchanges of views on matters it considers important, such as efforts to increase the number of countries joining the Convention and other issues related to the Convention's operation.

**1-3 Exchanges of dignitaries and policy dialogue**

*Exchanges with related organizations*

In July 2023, a representative of Japan visited the Convention's secretariat and conveyed a financial contribution. The head of the secretariat expressed gratitude for Japan's contribution and stated that Japan's further contribution to upholding the Convention was expected. Following this, an exchange of views was held on matters such as the secretariat's activities.

In September 2023, a representative of Japan attended a meeting related to the Convention on Cluster Munitions.

**1-4 Involvement of Japan-related parties**

*Involvement of Japan-related parties*

The Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC), in which Japanese NGOs also participate, is actively engaged, including by presenting its views at meetings. Civil society organizations can also hold events during the meeting period to showcase their activities.

At the 2023 meeting, events were held by organizations that provide information related to landmines and cluster bombs, as well as organizations engaged in humanitarian assistance.

**1-5 Summary of the contribution's overall contribution**

*Contribution through this funding*

Japan is one of the world's top countries in supporting countermeasures against landmines, cluster bombs, and unexploded ordnance, and is advancing various efforts to achieve a world free of cluster bombs.

The ISU, the secretariat for the Convention on Cluster Munitions, plays an extremely important role in ensuring that the Convention is run properly and effectively upheld. Supporting the ISU's activities is a highly effective means of showing the world that Japan is seriously committed to countering cluster bombs and unexploded ordnance.

The international community's trust in Japan's contribution stems from Japan's contribution to the secretariat, which is indispensable to the Convention's operation. This financial contribution is linked to the effective upholding of the Convention, and can be said to greatly contribute to advancing Japan's cluster munitions countermeasures and to enhancing its diplomatic influence.

At the meeting, words of gratitude were expressed for Japan's contribution.

### [Evaluation Criterion 2: Outcomes of the activities of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution]

**2-1 (1) [Core contribution only] Strategic objectives of the recipient organization**

*The ISU's goals and activities*

The Convention on Cluster Munitions (the Oslo Convention) sets out an activity plan up until the next meeting, to be held in 2026. This plan lays out concrete actions that the countries that have signed the Convention should take, such as destroying cluster bombs, clearing unexploded ordnance, and supporting victims.

The countries that have signed the Convention carry out activities to uphold it in line with this plan, and report on their progress and receive an assessment at a meeting held every year.

At the meeting, the countries that have signed the Convention also adopted the "Lausanne Declaration," which expresses their commitments. This declaration serves as a guideline for activities not only for countries that have signed the Convention, but also for international organizations and NGOs involved in the field of cluster bombs.

The ISU, the Convention's secretariat, aims to ensure that the countries that have signed the Convention fulfill their obligations and that the Convention is run effectively.

In September 2023, the ISU, as the Convention's secretariat, held its Eleventh Meeting of States Parties. At this meeting, the Convention's progress and challenges were discussed, and the implementation status of the "Lausanne Action Plan," adopted at the previous meeting, was confirmed.

The "Lausanne Action Plan" sets out concrete actions that the countries that have signed the Convention should undertake over the next five years. At the meeting, reports and discussions were held on matters such as each country's status in upholding the Convention, efforts to increase the number of countries joining, the destruction of cluster bombs, victim support, and the Convention's financial situation.

At the meeting, Somalia and Laos also expressed gratitude for Japan's contribution. Holding the Meeting of States Parties is an important opportunity to confirm progress toward the intended goals, and the ISU plays an indispensable role as the secretariat responsible for holding this meeting.

The ISU actively shares information about discussions at the meeting and its other activities through its official website and social media. In addition to meeting materials, statements and reports from each country can also be viewed, and pages showing each country's status in upholding the Convention have also been set up.

The Convention on Cluster Munitions allows various organizations, including other international organizations and NGOs, to attend meetings as observers, making these meetings a venue for widely sharing information about the Convention's progress and the international community's efforts. The ISU provided support so that representatives of these organizations could attend the meetings.

The ISU regularly shared information and exchanged views with GICHD, its partner organization, about the efficient operation of the Convention and the ISU's organizational structure.

**2-1 (2) [Core contribution only] Efforts by the recipient organization to achieve the strategic objectives in 2-1 above, and their outcomes**

In September 2023, the ISU, as the Convention's secretariat, held its Eleventh Meeting of States Parties. At this meeting, the participating countries discussed how things decided at past meetings were progressing and what to do going forward.

In particular, it was confirmed whether the "Lausanne Action Plan"—a plan setting out concrete goals for the next five years—was being properly carried out. This plan includes various goals, such as calling on countries that have not yet signed the Convention to do so, disposing of stockpiled cluster bombs, and supporting victims of cluster bombs.

At the meeting, reports and discussions were held on matters such as how well each country was upholding the Convention and what efforts were being made to achieve the goals. Somalia and Laos also expressed gratitude for Japan's contribution.

The Meeting of States Parties is a very important opportunity to confirm progress toward the goals. The ISU plays an indispensable role as the secretariat that holds this meeting.

The ISU actively shares information about the meeting's content and its activities through its official website and social media. The website allows people to view not only meeting materials but also each country's reports and statements, and to learn in detail about the Convention's progress.

The ISU also allows other international organizations, NGOs, NPOs, and other civil society groups involved in countering cluster bombs to attend meetings as observers. This makes the meetings a venue for widely sharing information about the Convention's progress and each country's efforts. The ISU provided support, such as preparations and procedures, so that representatives of these organizations could attend the meetings.

The ISU regularly exchanged information and views with GICHD, its partner organization, regarding the efficient operation of the Convention and its organizational structure.

**2-3 Japan's efforts related to Evaluation Criterion 2 (including the recipient's response as a result)**

*Japan's efforts and support for the ISU*

Japan aims to become a world leader in the field of countering cluster bombs, and actively participates in the annually held Meeting of States Parties and the Review Conference held once every five years, contributing to international discussions on the cluster bomb problem.

At the meeting held in September 2023, Japan called on countries that have not yet signed the Convention to do so quickly, given the current severe international situation, introduced its support for unexploded ordnance countermeasures, and highlighted the importance of the Convention and Japan's contribution.

Through its support for the ISU, Japan is working to spread and strengthen the Convention, while also leading international efforts by carrying out support for countering cluster bombs and unexploded ordnance around the world. Support for the ISU is complementary to these support activities, and is indispensable for demonstrating Japan's contribution to countering cluster bombs.

In 2023, Japan's support for countering landmines, cluster bombs, and unexploded ordnance totaled more than approximately US$57 million across 18 countries and regions, and this support is recorded in an annual report and published on the United Nations website.

### [Evaluation Criterion 3: Organizational and administrative/financial management of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution]

**3-1 Overview of the financial statements, etc. relating to this contribution**

*How the money is used and managed*

- Accounting period: January to December
- Financial statement: A report on how the money was used in 2022 was received in June 2023.
- Contents of the report:
  - Of the money collected (approximately 780,000 Swiss francs), approximately 530,000 Swiss francs was used, and the remaining approximately 250,000 Swiss francs was carried over to the following year.
  - The carried-over money serves as a buffer to prepare for possible future budget shortfalls.
  - It was approved at the September 2023 meeting that this carried-over amount would be added to the following fiscal year's revenue.
- Audit: A Swiss auditing firm checked the accounting details and confirmed that there were no problems.
- Transparency: At the meeting held each year, the way the money is used and how the secretariat is run are discussed. At the 2023 meeting, the head of the secretariat presented the proposed budget and activity plan, which were approved by the participating countries.

Through these procedures, it is ensured that the money is properly managed and that transparency is maintained.

**3-2 Organizational and administrative/financial management surrounding this contribution project**

*Organizational management*

- Improving operations: At meetings, the secretariat's organization and operating methods are discussed. It exchanges information with the secretariats of other conventions that have similar goals, aiming for efficient operations.
- Improper conduct: So far, no improper conduct has been reported.
- Japan's contribution: At the meeting held each year, Japan checks whether the money is being used efficiently and supports the secretariat's activities. Japan's contribution helps strengthen the secretariat's financial foundation.

In other words, this money is being properly managed and used in a highly transparent way.

### [Evaluation Criterion 4: Status of Japanese staff and posts, etc.]

**4-1 Japanese staff working at the secretariat**

The number of Japanese people working at the secretariat of the Convention on Cluster Munitions has been zero for the past three years.

The secretariat has a total staff of 2.5 people, counting two full-time staff members, including the head, and part-time staff members as "0.5 people."

**4-2 Reason why the number of Japanese staff has not increased**

The funds needed for the secretariat's activities are covered by contributions from the countries that have signed the Convention. To reduce the burden on these countries, the secretariat has placed importance on being as small and efficient an organization as possible.

For this reason, the secretariat's staffing level is small, at 2.5 people. The secretariat has already reached an appropriate and necessary number of staff, and since there are currently no open positions, increasing the number of Japanese staff is not considered a suitable goal at this time.

# Contribution to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

## Document B1 — Original (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Published Version)

### [Overview of the Recipient Organization]

Established in June 1967, based on the 21st UN General Assembly Resolution (General Assembly Resolution 2211: the Secretary-General's report on population growth and economic development), in order to strengthen activities in the field of population (headquarters: New York, USA). Began operations in 1969. 193 member states. Provides reproductive health and family planning information and services, and support in the field of population and development, in more than 150 countries. Has a Liaison Office in Japan (Tokyo).

### [Overview]

This contribution is used to cover the operational expenses of the activities of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which provides information and services related to maternal and child health, reproductive health, family planning, gender, and population issues, with the aim of improving maternal health and, in turn, realizing human security and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). More specifically, the majority of this contribution is a core contribution to UNFPA's regular budget, while a portion is a non-core, earmarked contribution to the "Intercountry NGO Support Trust Fund" (in which UNFPA manages the contribution while NGOs working in the field of population and development carry out the actual activities).

### [Evaluation Criterion 1: Degree of contribution to the Japanese diplomatic policy objectives that this contribution aims to achieve]

**1-1 (1) Diplomatic policy objectives (strategy, key policies, priority areas, etc.) that this contribution aims to achieve**

This contribution is positioned, within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' policy evaluation framework, as one of the means for achieving the medium-term goals set under "Basic Goal," "Policy VI-2: Addressing Global Issues," and "Individual Field 1: Promotion of Human Security and Japan's Contribution," specifically under the following performance indicators. (See pages 384-387 of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' FY2023 Prior Policy Evaluation Analysis Sheet.)

- The medium-term goal set under "Performance Indicator 1-2: Promotion of Projects through the Trust Fund for Human Security": "to promote the mainstreaming of the concept of human security within international organizations by making use of the Trust Fund for Human Security."
- The following medium-term goals set under "Performance Indicator 1-3: Promotion of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Countermeasures against Infectious Diseases":

 "Based on the concept of human security, and from the perspective of 'leaving no one's health behind,' the following efforts will be undertaken toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC):"
 1. Exercise leadership to promote international understanding of UHC, and promote concrete efforts by each country toward achieving UHC.
 2. Promote bilateral support and support through international health organizations toward the prevention of and countermeasures against infectious diseases such as COVID-19, tuberculosis, AIDS, malaria, and Ebola hemorrhagic fever, and toward building robust health systems and emergency preparedness.

In addition, the "Global Health Strategy," decided by the Headquarters for Healthcare Policy of the Cabinet Secretariat in May 2022, states as follows: "Demographic change (declining birthrate and aging population, population increase/decrease, urbanization, migration, movement of people due to conflict, etc.) affects every aspect of human, social, and economic development, and affects health. Population issues cannot be separated from women's health, including pregnancy and childbirth, and efforts are also needed from the perspective of protecting sexual and reproductive health and rights. Japan has been addressing demographic change and development through UNFPA (the United Nations Population Fund) and IPPF (the International Planned Parenthood Federation), and will continue this cooperation going forward."

Under Japan's "Third National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (WPS)," formulated in April 2023, the following is set out as a concrete measure under "I. Promotion of Women's Participation and Peacebuilding from a Gender Perspective": "(2) Implementation of support for women's and girls' empowerment—including literacy education and vocational training—in conflict-affected countries, refugee camps, and host communities; prevention of, protection from, and response to sexual and gender-based violence; support for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR); social and economic empowerment of women affected by conflict; and support incorporating a gender perspective into community activities."

**1-1 (2) Usefulness and importance of this contribution in achieving the goal in 1-1(1) above (including complementarity with other means, comparative advantage, irreplaceability, etc.)**

As the world's population continues to increase and human activity has a major impact on the planet, appropriately addressing population issues is essential to realizing a sustainable and better society. Amid a wide range of population challenges seen around the world—including notably high birth rates in sub-Saharan Africa, the demographic dividend in Asia and Latin America (including employment issues involving the empowerment of young people), and the declining birthrate and aging population seen primarily in developed countries—promoting "sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR)," under which people can make their own decisions regarding pregnancy and childbirth based on sufficient information, and efforts related to the empowerment of women and youth, are urgent challenges. To address these challenges so that everyone can enjoy SRHR, UNFPA provides information and services related to reproductive health and family planning, and support in the fields of gender equality and population and development, in more than 150 countries.

UNFPA advocates a life-cycle approach that provides optimal interventions at each stage of life, and, in addition to supporting each stage from birth through adolescence to pregnancy and childbirth, is also active from the perspective of aging populations. Furthermore, as noted above, the Global Health Strategy decided in May 2022 states that Japan will continue to cooperate on demographic change and development through UNFPA and other organizations.

Toward achieving the goal described in 1-1(1) above, UNFPA prioritizes "leaving no one behind" and "reaching the furthest behind first," providing support to people in humanitarian crises and in developing countries. The field of population and reproductive health in which UNFPA works is closely tied to matters of sex, culture, and religion; by providing support through UNFPA, a UN agency with a long track record in this field, Japan is able to reach countries and regions not covered by its own bilateral assistance, contributing to an increase in coverage in this field.

In addition, in strengthening basic health systems through human resource development and institutional support toward the goals noted above, UNFPA is particularly engaged in developing and strengthening health personnel, centered on midwives, and in developing laws and environments to achieve gender equality (see 2-1(2) below for results). UNFPA gives priority especially to people in humanitarian crises and vulnerable circumstances, which is indispensable to achieving UHC. In March 2024, at the symposium "WPS + Innovation: From the UN Field" (New York, USA), attended by Foreign Minister Kamikawa, it was stated that Japan "will continue to provide support that responds to the urgent needs of women, children, and other people in vulnerable positions, through organizations such as UNFPA." Furthermore, the "G7 Foreign Ministers' Communiqué: Addressing Global Challenges and Promoting Partnerships" of April 2024 stated: "We will promote comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights, including through the opportunities of the UN General Assembly and the Summit of the Future," and "We remain committed to protecting women and girls from sexual and gender-based violence before, during, and after conflict, holding perpetrators accountable, and providing support and services to survivors."

During Foreign Minister Kamikawa's visit to Madagascar in April 2024, she inspected a mobile clinic and other projects supported by Japan through UNFPA, and stated that she "hopes activities incorporating a WPS perspective will develop further, in order to realize a safe and secure world in which human dignity is protected"—an expression of high expectations for the role UNFPA will play in the WPS agenda that Japan promotes.

To conduct its activities more efficiently, UNFPA collaborates with other UN agencies and local NGOs. Among UN agencies, these include the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF: services for children and youth), UN Women (gender equality and women's empowerment), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP: women's social participation), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR: support for refugees), and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA: understanding the situation of people in humanitarian crises); UNFPA generates synergies by drawing on the expertise of each of these organizations.

Furthermore, as the only UN agency dealing exclusively with population issues, UNFPA is addressing the declining birthrate and aging population that Japan places importance on (see 1-5 below for details), and is thus irreplaceable in this respect.

**1-2 Status of maintaining/securing a position, etc., through which Japan's intentions can be reflected in the recipient's decision-making process**

Between 2007 and 2021, Japan secured 12 terms—the most of any member—on the Executive Board, UNFPA's highest decision-making body (36 seats), through rotation as a member of the Western European and Others Group (determined based on factors including the amount of core fund contributions), with the exception of three years (2009, 2014, and 2019). Japan has also secured seats for seven of the terms between 2022 and 2029, with the exception of 2027, and in 2023 also participated, as a member of the Executive Board, in the three sessions of the Executive Board held that year (held in June 2023, August 2023, and January 2024 during the evaluation period). In addition, regular opportunities for exchanges of views are arranged between the Liaison Office in Japan and the Japanese government, with efforts made to ensure that Japan's views are conveyed to UNFPA headquarters without delay via the Liaison Office each time.

**1-3 Exchanges of dignitaries and policy dialogue with the recipient**

In July 2022, Ms. Mariko Sato, Director of the UNFPA Liaison Office in Japan, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Hayashi. Views were exchanged on population issues addressed by UNFPA, and Foreign Minister Hayashi expressed appreciation for the expansion of partnerships with Japanese companies led by the Liaison Office.

At the Global Conference of Parliamentarians on Population and Development (GCPPD2023), held in April 2023 ahead of the G7 Hiroshima Summit, Prime Minister Kishida delivered a keynote speech and Foreign Minister Hayashi delivered opening remarks (Mr. Ian McFarlane, Director of UNFPA's Information and External Relations Division (online), and Mr. Klaus Beck, Deputy Director of UNFPA's Asia and the Pacific Regional Office, also participated and spoke). In his opening remarks, Foreign Minister Hayashi stated that "the Government of Japan supports efforts to address population issues through its contributions to the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)," and introduced Japan's support, through the Japan Trust Fund (JTF) established at UNFPA, for parliamentary activities on population and development issues around the world. In his keynote speech, Prime Minister Kishida emphasized that "population issues affect every aspect of human, social, and economic development, and are directly linked to the shape of society; they form the foundation for achieving sustainable development, and for this reason population issues are related to all of the SDGs, making it essential to incorporate a population perspective in achieving the SDGs."

In July 2023, Executive Director Kanem and Ambassador Akahori, Deputy Director-General for Global Issues, held the Japan-UNFPA Policy Consultations (2023) online. Views were exchanged on a wide range of topics, including follow-up on the outcomes in the health field from the G7 Hiroshima Summit, confirmation of the cooperative relationship between Japan and UNFPA toward achieving the SDGs, and both sides' policy priorities; UNFPA also proposed co-hosting an event the following year to mark the 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). Japan, for its part, requested that headquarters leadership strengthen efforts related to population issues, and strengthen the staffing of Japanese personnel and the Liaison Office in Japan. In March 2024, Executive Director Kanem, visiting Japan, and Ambassador Akahori held the Japan-UNFPA Policy Consultations (2024) in person; following coordination since the previous consultations, discussions were held on collaboration toward the Global Dialogue marking the 30th anniversary of ICPD, to be co-hosted by Japan in May 2024, as well as both sides' policy priorities, including UNFPA's humanitarian assistance activities, and the two sides agreed to continue close cooperation.

In March 2024, Executive Director Kanem, visiting Japan, paid a courtesy call on Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Hosaka. Parliamentary Vice-Minister Hosaka expressed appreciation for UNFPA's SRHR-related activities, and stated that the provision of sexual and reproductive health services is indispensable to achieving UHC, which Japan places importance on, and that Japan intends to continue its proactive efforts; the two sides agreed to cooperate closely toward achieving UHC, including through the ICPD30 Global Dialogue.

In April 2024, Deputy Executive Director Sabharwal of UNFPA, visiting Japan, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Kamikawa. In addition to expressing expectations for co-hosting the ICPD30 Global Dialogue, Foreign Minister Kamikawa explained the WPS Task Force she had established and its promotion; the two sides agreed that UNFPA's activities are also important for promoting WPS, and that they would work together more closely to advance both UHC and WPS.

At the parliamentary conference "ICPD30: Toward Realizing an Aging Society that Leaves No One Behind," held in April 2024, Foreign Minister Kamikawa stated in her opening remarks that "contributions by parliamentarians are an essential element in addressing population issues, which are closely linked to every social and development issue, and the Japanese government is also supporting this activity—one example being the establishment of the Japan Trust Fund (JTF) at UNFPA"—and expressed the government's intention to continue such support.

At the margins of the ICPD30 Global Dialogue held in Bangladesh in May 2024, a bilateral meeting was held between Executive Director Kanem and Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Hosaka. Executive Director Kanem expressed gratitude for Japan's leadership in the field of population and development, and the two sides exchanged views on future developments in this field and on achieving UHC, confirming their intention to continue close cooperation.

**1-4 Involvement in the recipient organization by Japan-related parties other than the Japanese government (Japanese companies, including procurement contractors; Japanese NGOs/NPOs; local governments; universities; individual members serving in a personal capacity; etc.), and the usefulness/importance of this contribution for these parties. Status of use of the contribution toward benefiting Japan-related parties, such as ensuring procurement opportunities for Japanese companies.**

*1. Partnerships with Japanese companies and universities*

Led by the Liaison Office in Japan, UNFPA has strengthened partnerships with Japanese companies. Through the partnerships listed below during the evaluation period, Japanese companies have supported UN agencies and promoted the SDGs, benefiting Japanese companies, UNFPA, and beneficiaries alike.

**List of partnerships with Japanese companies, universities, and others**

| Partner | Activities | Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited | (1) Implemented the emergency lifesaving service "2Hours to Life" in three countries—Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, and Togo—from 2022 to 2025. (2) Provided support for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) in five countries: Azerbaijan, El Salvador, Indonesia, Madagascar, and Zimbabwe. | (1) approx. ¥1.1 billion; (2) approx. ¥998 million |
| Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd., TOKYO FM, and a total of 41 other Japanese companies, organizations, and academic societies | Co-hosted "Let's Talk 2023" on November 23, 2023, organized by the cervical cancer prevention awareness project "Hellosmile"; the Liaison Office Director spoke at the event. (Note: Partnership began in 2011; reusable bags are planned to be produced using donations received during the evaluation period.) | ¥100,000 |
| Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | (1) Implemented a cervical cancer prevention project in Bhutan. (2) Implemented a cervical cancer prevention project in Fiji. (3) Provided funding to the Liaison Office in Japan to hire a consultant for the project with Chugai. (Note: The cervical cancer project support previously implemented in Bhutan through 2023 was extended for a further three years from 2024, expanding to Fiji and the Liaison Office.) | (1) $150,000; (2) $150,000; (3) $69,000 |
| Panasonic Corporation | Provided 2,000 solar lanterns (worth approx. $200,000) to areas without access to electricity in Kenya, aiming to help continue education through increased income and reduce the incidence of female genital mutilation (FGM). Implemented from January 2022 to January 2025. | approx. $200,000 |
| Music Securities, Inc. | Raised a total of approximately ¥15.5 million through three donation pages—supporting Ukraine, Turkey, and others—via a platform that accepts donations from individuals and organizations. (Note: Partnership began in 2011.) | — |
| Wesley Foundation | Development of a mobile application for countermeasures against gender-based violence (GBV) at the UNFPA Cambodia office. Implemented from April 2022 to March 2025. Discussions are underway regarding support for producing a program on digital violence (see the entry for JIB below). | $250,000 |
| Kwansei Gakuin University YWCA | Co-hosted a "Bodyright" campaign on social media during the "16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence" (November 25 to December 10). | — |
| ITOCHU Corporation | Donates a portion of group companies' sales to the UNFPA Ethiopia office, and also provides support for production technology for items such as sanitary napkins. (Note: Partnership concluded in March 2024, to be implemented through 2027.) | approx. $130,000 (planned total over three years) |
| NHK and six commercial broadcasters (Nippon TV, TV Asahi, TBS, TV Tokyo, Fuji TV, TOKYO MX) | Ran the campaign "#BecauseItsInternationalWomensDay," disseminating information encouraging reflection on women's bodies and ways of living, to coincide with International Women's Day in March 2024. (Note: Ongoing since 2022.) | — |
| fermata Inc. | UNFPA supported Femtech Fes!, held from February 9 to 11, 2024, with the Liaison Office Director speaking at the event. | — |
| Japan Femtech Association | The Liaison Office Director contributed a video message for the Japan Femtech Summit 2024, held in February 2024. | — |
| 2025 Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition | As a technical advisor for the Osaka-Kansai Expo, UNFPA is cooperating on agenda content and the selection of speakers. | — |
| NEC Corporation | In discussions with the UNFPA Liaison Office in Japan and regional offices to build a data management system, primarily for coupon distribution during humanitarian assistance. (Note: Discussions began in August 2023.) | — |
| Japan International Broadcasting Inc. (JIB) | Planning, together with the Liaison Office, a program focused on digital violence, expected to be broadcast on NHK WORLD-JAPAN and posted on its website. (Note: Further discussions planned.) | — |
| Tokyo Institute of Technology, Nagoya City University, and others | Participated as speakers at various events and lectures. | — |

*2. APDA/AFPPD/JPFP*

UNFPA cooperates closely with the Asian Population and Development Association (APDA, chaired by former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda) and the Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population and Development (AFPPD, chaired by House of Councillors member Keizo Takemi) (see 2-2 for details). At the beginning of 2021, with the support of the Japan Parliamentarians Federation for Population (JPFP, Secretary-General: House of Representatives member Hitoshi Kikawada), and in collaboration with IPPF, JOICFP, APDA, and AFPPD, the "SDGs, Human Security, and Population Alliance" was established with the aim of strengthening domestic and international activities related to population and development issues. At JPFP meetings and study sessions, advocacy activities were conducted on themes such as "UNFPA's humanitarian assistance activities and an introduction to the State of World Population 2023 report" (July 2023) and "UNFPA's humanitarian assistance activities in the Gaza Strip, Palestine" (December 2023), addressing the importance of SRH, including family planning, and gender equality in development. In this way, UNFPA has contributed to activities addressing population challenges both within Japan and abroad.

In November 2023, JPFP submitted a letter of request concerning the population field to Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Hosaka. Given that women's health, including pregnancy and childbirth, and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are directly linked to global population issues, the letter requested strengthening the cooperative framework between IPPF, which addresses these issues, and the Government of Japan.

**1-5 Summary of the contribution's overall contribution toward the diplomatic policy objective in 1-1(1)**

UNFPA's activities aim to realize the "society where women can shine" that Japan places importance on, and address development cooperation attentive to the specific needs of women, including in times of disaster; under the concept of human security, and while emphasizing efforts in the fields of women and health, UNFPA's activities align with Japan's policies and approach of pursuing sustainable development in developing countries, and play an extremely important role in realizing Japan's policies. In particular, the provision of health services targeting women in vulnerable circumstances and support for countering gender-based violence make a major contribution to realizing, in the field, the measure set out in Japan's "Third National Action Plan on WPS": "(2) Implementation of support for women's and girls' empowerment—including literacy education and vocational training—in conflict-affected countries, refugee camps, and host communities; prevention of, protection from, and response to sexual and gender-based violence; support for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR); social and economic empowerment of women affected by conflict; and support incorporating a gender perspective into community activities."

As the only UN agency dealing with population issues, UNFPA is also addressing the declining birthrate and aging population that Japan places importance on. At the April 2024 parliamentary conference "ICPD30: Toward Realizing an Aging Society that Leaves No One Behind," conducted as a UNFPA/Japan Trust Fund (JTF) project, parliamentarians from Arab and Asian countries gathered to discuss healthy aging, drawing on examples from Japan. Countermeasures against aging align with the "Asia Health and Well-Being Initiative" and "Africa Health and Well-Being Initiative" that Japan promotes, and by Japan supporting and backing UNFPA's projects, greater results can be expected than Japan could achieve alone.

From the perspective of achieving the SDGs, UNFPA's activities directly contribute not only to achieving health (Goal 3) and gender equality (Goal 5), but also to poverty reduction (Goal 1), reducing inequality (Goal 10), climate action (Goal 13), peace (Goal 16), and partnerships (Goal 17). By responding to the needs of, and protecting the rights of, people in vulnerable circumstances, UNFPA enables human-centered development and also contributes to realizing human security.

The total amount of contributions to UNFPA from all donors exceeded $1.4 billion in 2023, exceeding the target set under the Strategic Plan 2022-2025 by approximately 17.8%. As noted in 1-4 above, in Japan too, numerous private companies and organizations expanded their partnerships with UNFPA during the evaluation period, indicating that not only the government but also organizations and companies place great importance on, and highly value, UNFPA's activities.

In a video message delivered to the Seventh Asian and Pacific Population Conference, co-hosted by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and UNFPA in November 2023, Foreign Minister Kamikawa stated that "through the promotion of human security and UHC, and looking ahead to next year's 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development, Japan will contribute to the increasingly diverse discussions and international cooperation on population." Furthermore, at the ICPD30 Global Dialogue "Demographic Diversity and Sustainable Development," co-hosted by Japan together with Bangladesh and Bulgaria in May 2024, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Hosaka attended representing the Government of Japan and the Japan Parliamentarians Federation for Population, and, while noting that Japan has long promoted efforts on population and development, stated Japan's wish to lead discussions on increasingly diverse demographics and sustainable development together with partners including UNFPA. Through these statements at international conferences, Japan was able to demonstrate its stance of contributing to global population and development issues in cooperation with UNFPA.

As described above, this contribution made a significant contribution during the evaluation period toward achieving diplomatic policy objectives.

### [Evaluation Criterion 2: Outcomes of the activities of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution]

**2-1 (1) [Core contribution only] Strategic objectives of the recipient organization**

UNFPA has set forth a mission of achieving "three zeros" by 2030: (1) zero preventable maternal deaths, (2) zero gender-based violence and harmful practices such as child marriage, and (3) zero unmet need for family planning services.

The "UNFPA Strategic Plan 2022-2025," adopted in September 2021, sets out the acceleration of the following, in order to achieve this mission:

1. Reducing preventable maternal deaths by 2025 (2025 target indicator: maternal mortality of 124 per 100,000 live births)
2. Reducing gender-based violence and harmful practices such as child marriage by 2025 (2025 target indicator: proportion of women aged 20-24 who were married before age 18: 11%)
3. Improving unmet need for family planning services by 2025 (2025 target indicator: proportion with unmet need for family planning services: 5%)

These activities contribute to achieving the SDGs' goals on health (Goal 3), gender equality (Goal 5), reduced inequality (Goal 10), climate action (Goal 13), peace (Goal 16), and partnerships (Goal 17), as well as ultimately contributing to achieving poverty reduction (Goal 1).

**2-1 (2) [Core contribution only] Efforts by the recipient organization to achieve the strategic objectives in 2-1 above, and their outcomes**

Amid multiple ongoing crises, including climate change and economic instability, UNFPA achieved the following results in 2023 based on the Strategic Plan 2022-2025. It further provided SRH service support to more than 10 million people across 50 humanitarian crises, and provided GBV prevention and response services to 4.2 million people.

| Indicator | 2022 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Maternal deaths averted | 30,800 | 33,980 |
| Unsafe abortions averted | 3.70 million | 5.85 million |
| HIV infections prevented | 117,000 | 147,000 |
| Unintended pregnancies averted | 13.30 million | 17.96 million |
| Couple-years of protection (CYP; annual total supply of contraceptive methods) | 59.00 million | 85.80 million |
| Girls protected from female genital mutilation (FGM) | 111,425 | 162,044 |

In addition to the above, the following results were reported for 2023:
- Number of women treated for obstetric fistula: 8,697
- Sexually transmitted infections averted: 6.4 million
- Safe births supported in humanitarian crises: 956,000 (across 39 countries)

As a result of UNFPA's activities, the following results had been achieved in national policies by 2023:
- Number of countries committed to zero preventable maternal deaths: 64
- Number of countries committed to zero unmet need for family planning: 61
- Number of countries committed to zero GBV: 60
- Number of countries committed to zero child marriage: 47
- Number of countries committed to zero FGM: 26

Achievement in 2023 against the six output targets of the Strategic Plan 2022-2025 was as follows: three items exceeded their targets, and the other three achieved close to 90% of their targets.

| Output area | Achievement against 2023 target |
|---|---|
| 1. Policy and accountability | 117% |
| 2. Quality care and services | 154% |
| 3. Gender and social norms | 96% |
| 4. Population dynamics and data | 89% |
| 5. Humanitarian action | 93% |
| 6. Adolescents and youth | 120% |

**2-2 [Non-core contribution only] Objectives, efforts, and outcomes of projects implemented using the non-core contribution**

Amid multiple ongoing crises, including climate change and economic instability, UNFPA achieved the following results in 2023 based on the Strategic Plan 2022-2025. It further provided SRH service support to more than 10 million people across 50 humanitarian crises, and provided GBV prevention and response services to 4.2 million people.
- Number of women treated for obstetric fistula: 8,697
- Sexually transmitted infections averted: 6.4 million
- Safe births supported in humanitarian crises: 956,000 (across 39 countries)

As a result of UNFPA's activities, the following results had been achieved in national policies by 2023:
- Number of countries committed to zero preventable maternal deaths: 64
- Number of countries committed to zero unmet need for family planning: 61
- Number of countries committed to zero GBV: 60
- Number of countries committed to zero child marriage: 47
- Number of countries committed to zero FGM: 26

Achievement in 2023 against the six output targets of the Strategic Plan 2022-2025 was as follows: three items exceeded their targets, and the other three achieved close to 90% of their targets.

Through its earmarked contribution, within the original budget, to the "Intercountry NGO Support Trust Fund" (in which UNFPA manages the contribution while NGOs working in the field of population and development carry out the actual activities), Japan supports the activities of NGOs in the population and development field that operate on a multilateral or regional scale. During the evaluation period, the Asian Population and Development Association (APDA), a public interest incorporated foundation, received funding and held meetings involving parliamentarians from developing countries. During the evaluation period, four projects were carried out: (1) a Central/Eastern Europe regional project (Tajikistan, Uzbekistan), (2) an Arab region project (Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Tokyo), (3) an Africa region project (Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda), and (4) an Asia region project (India, Sri Lanka, Laos, Tokyo), with discussions held at both the national and regional levels. The main results of these are as follows.

*(1) Central/Eastern Europe regional project*
At a hybrid meeting, "ICPD30: A Policy-Making Initiative to Address Gender-Based Violence in Central Asia," held in Dushanbe (Tajikistan) in September 2023, 55 people—including parliamentarians, UNFPA representatives, civil society, and experts—gathered online and in person. AFPPD Chair Keizo Takemi emphasized in a video message the importance of appropriate legislation and policy-making in addressing population issues, including GBV. At the meeting, it was confirmed that parliamentary leadership, grounded in a gender perspective, is essential to ensuring the rights and choices of all people.

*(2) Arab region project*
At "Youth Empowerment and the SDGs," held in Amman (Jordan) in September 2023, a total of 75 people participated, including parliamentarians as well as representatives of organizations involved with youth and sustainable development; and at the "Parliamentary Meeting on Population and Development," held in Cairo (Egypt) in November, 50 people participated, including parliamentarians, relevant ministries, and representatives of civil society organizations. The implementation status of recommendations previously adopted at parliamentary meetings held by APDA and the Forum of Arab Parliamentarians on Population and Development (FAPPD) was reviewed, and it was confirmed that various laws had been enacted based on these recommendations.

*(3) Africa region project*
The "Africa-Asia Parliamentary Conference toward ICPD30 and AADPD10," held in Kigali (Rwanda) in October 2023, brought together approximately 60 participants—including parliamentarians, UNFPA representatives, civil society, and experts—from around 30 African and Asian countries. Participants reviewed progress on the ICPD agenda, renewed their determination to incorporate the ICPD Programme of Action into their countries' laws and policies, and shared examples and effective approaches to legislation and policy-making necessary for preventing GBV, empowering women and youth, and promoting SRHR for all.

*(4) Asia region project*
At a parliamentary workshop focused on youth, held in New Delhi (India) in August 2023, more than 60 people participated in total, both in person and online. AFPPD Chair Keizo Takemi and other participating parliamentarians and experts identified investment in youth and adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) as a shared challenge requiring a response across the Asia-Pacific region. In addition, the GCPPD2023 Declaration—adopted at the "Global Conference of Parliamentarians on Population and Development toward the G7 Hiroshima Summit (GCPPD2023)," hosted by APDA, AFPPD, and JPFP in April of the same year and submitted to Prime Minister Kishida, calling on G7/G20 governments to focus on aging, youth, gender, human security, and other population issues—was also handed to the G20 Sherpa.

At the parliamentary conference "ICPD30: Toward Realizing an Aging Society that Leaves No One Behind," held in Tokyo in April 2024 (see 1-3 above), a total of 150 parliamentarians, along with representatives of international organizations and youth organizations, gathered from 22 countries. Discussions were held on ways to improve the lives of older people, respect their autonomy, dignity, and choices, and take preventive measures as a long-term solution through a life-cycle approach centered on gender equality, social inclusion, and human rights; the need to support all generations throughout their lives was emphasized, in order to address the fundamental socioeconomic and developmental challenges experienced due to rapid aging and declining birthrates. The results of these discussions were adopted as a set of recommendations, encouraging each country's parliament to consider matters such as appropriate budgetary measures and legislation of policies toward realizing an aging society that leaves no one behind.

These activities are made public through APDA's monthly e-newsletter and website, among other channels; the JTF logo is also displayed on conference banners, programs, information sheets, name tags, questionnaires, and the like, to make clear that this is Japanese support. Furthermore, opening remarks by participants (parliamentarians from each country, etc.) have explicitly acknowledged and expressed gratitude for Japan's support.

**2-3 Japan's efforts related to Evaluation Criterion 2 (including the recipient's response as a result)**

As a result of policy consultations and dialogue with key figures calling on the UN "Population" Fund to strengthen its activities addressing population issues, including the declining birthrate and aging population, numerous events and international conferences on population and development were held, as described in 1-5 and 2-2 above, and Japan's knowledge on population issues, including its declining birthrate and aging population, as well as its contribution to international cooperation, were widely publicized. In particular, the co-hosting of the ICPD30 Global Dialogue "Demographic Diversity and Sustainable Development," held in May 2024, was realized as UNFPA's response to Japan's request, made previously through policy consultations and other channels, to "strengthen activities addressing population issues."

### [Evaluation Criterion 3: Organizational and administrative/financial management of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution]

**3-1 Overview of the financial statements, etc. relating to this contribution**

3-1 (1) Fiscal year: January to December
3-1 (2) Month and year the financial statements were received (published by the recipient): June 2024 (for Japan's FY2023 contribution)
3-1 (3) Reason, if the report has not yet been received: Not applicable
 (Reference) Expected timing of receipt of the next report: around June 2025 (for Japan's FY2024 contribution)
3-1 (4) Summary of the financial statements and audit results, etc.

*(Core contribution)*
The most recent financial report covers UNFPA's overall accounts for the period January-December 2023. Japan's FY2023 contribution is recorded as revenue for UNFPA's 2023 fiscal year.

According to the financial report published in 2023, total revenue in 2023 was $1.4245 billion, exceeding the Strategic Plan target of $1.2088 billion by 17.8%. Expenditure, meanwhile, was $1.5104 billion, exceeding total revenue for the same year; this is because revenue is counted at the point when an agreement with a donor is concluded, whereas expenditure is counted at the point when a service is delivered, resulting in a time lag between the counting of revenue and expenditure.

*(Non-core contribution)*
For non-core contributions, reports must be submitted within six months of a project's completion, and Japan confirms these as soon as they are submitted. Of the three projects funded by Japan's FY2020 contribution (implemented in FY2021)—Uganda (November 2020-December 2021), Egypt (October 2021-March 2022), and an Asia regional project (extended to November 2020-June 2022)—both activity reports and financial reports have been received and confirmed for all three. Financial reports for projects funded by Japan's FY2021 contribution (implemented in FY2022)—Ethiopia (April 2022-March 2023), Indonesia (extended to July 2022-June 2023), and an Asia regional (Philippines/Tokyo) project (October 2022-December 2023)—are to be compiled collectively by UNFPA headquarters before being issued, and are expected to be received around July 2024.

The most recent external audit was conducted in July 2023 by the UN Board of Auditors (BOA), and UNFPA received Unqualified Audit Opinions for the 13th consecutive year. UNFPA's finances for the 2022 fiscal year (as of the end of December 2022) were assessed as being in strong financial health ("UNFPA closed 2022 in strong financial health").

UNFPA's Evaluation Office also conducts organizational evaluations, reporting to the Executive Board on matters such as evaluation performance at headquarters and country levels, consistency with the UN system's overall evaluation function, and the strengthening of evaluation capacity at the country level.

**3-2 Organizational and administrative/financial management surrounding this contribution project (including governance, compliance, risk management, etc.)**

3-2 (1) Status of key efforts toward further improving organizational and administrative/financial management and overcoming challenges (status of formulation of reform visions, strategies, implementation plans, etc., and the status and results of implementation of reform plans, etc.)

As a result of a 2022 audit by the UN Board of Auditors, UNFPA had addressed 75% of the 36 recommendations that remained unresolved in the 2021 audit report. The audit report issued in July 2023 raised 37 new recommendations, of which 15 had been addressed (as of December 2022).

Following a mid-term review of the Strategic Plan 2022-2025, the projected total revenue for the period was adjusted upward from the initial plan, with the core budget estimated at $1.7 billion (up from $1.65 billion) and non-core funds at $4.9 billion (up from $4.1 billion). Based on these projections, in order to realize its strategic priorities, UNFPA carried out a comprehensive budget adjustment, increasing program costs—which account for approximately 85% of available funds—by 20%, from $4.5 billion to $5.4 billion. At the same time, institutional (organizational) costs also increased by 3.9% from the initial plan, to $872.3 million. Notably, as a result of reallocating funds to more effectively translate resources into results, the share allocated to institutional (organizational) costs decreased from 16.2% to 14.3%.

This is the result of continued efforts to strengthen partnerships and cooperation with international financial institutions, together with reductions in some ICT services, rationalization of consulting and travel costs, and reductions in office operating costs at regional offices and elsewhere.

This shows that, while pursuing various means of fundraising, UNFPA is allocating a greater share to program (activity) costs, thereby reducing institutional costs.

3-2 (2) Summary of and response to so-called improper conduct (including allegations raised from within or outside the organization, such as through international media reports) related to organizational and administrative/financial management

Not applicable.

3-2 (3) Japan's engagement and efforts toward overcoming the challenges described in 3-2(1) and 3-2(2) above

As a member of the UNFPA Executive Board, Japan appropriately follows UNFPA's financial situation and the status of its organizational and program evaluations, while working with other Executive Board member states to engage with UNFPA.

In addition, through regular exchanges centered on the Liaison Office in Japan with UNFPA headquarters and countries where projects are implemented, Japan shares information and makes requests for improvement regarding matters such as Japanese staff, partnerships with Japanese companies, project implementation management, and public relations.

Japan has referred to the importance of private-sector partnerships in Executive Board statements and policy consultations. As a result, in addition to continuing and expanding the partnerships with Japanese companies listed in 1-4 above, UNFPA has also strengthened partnerships with international financial institutions such as the Islamic Development Bank, beyond private companies, toward further expanding partnerships. As a uniquely Japanese initiative, the partnership with Music Securities, Inc., also described in 1-4 above, has enabled a Japanese-language platform that accepts donations from individuals and organizations, raising more than ¥15 million to date for the crisis in Ukraine, the Türkiye-Syria earthquake, and UNFPA's activities in general.

### [Evaluation Criterion 4: Status of Japanese staff and posts, etc.]

**4-1 Status of Japanese staff and posts (professional-level and above; in principle as of the end of December 2023)**

4-1(1) Change in the number of Japanese staff (including Japanese senior staff)
☑ Recipient organization as a whole

(Reference) Number of Japanese staff over the past three years (including Japanese senior staff):

| | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | Average | 2023 | Change in 2023 | Total staff, 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese staff | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14.33 | 15 | +0.67 | 923 |

4-1(2) Change in the number of Japanese senior staff

| | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | Average | 2023 | Change in 2023 | Total senior staff, 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese senior staff | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 101 |

Remarks: [None]

4-1(3) In addition to the quantitative measurements in 4-1(1) and 4-1(2) above, qualitative circumstances that may warrant corresponding consideration (status of appointments to important positions at the ASG level or above, and efforts by the recipient organization and by Japan toward the recruitment and promotion of Japanese staff, etc.)

- In June 2023, Director Narita of the Liaison Office in Japan participated in the "International Organizations/International Cooperation Career Workshop" hosted by Sophia University, introducing UNFPA's activities and the skills needed to work at an international organization.
- The UNFPA Liaison Office in Japan also actively uses its website and social media to disseminate information such as vacancy announcements.
- The UNFPA Liaison Office in Japan accepts interns on an ongoing basis, providing opportunities for Japanese nationals to be hired by international organizations, including cases where former interns have been hired as Junior Professional Officers (JPOs).

**4-2 Reasonable grounds, if this contribution is not to be treated as subject to evaluation under Criterion 4 (treated as "N/A")**

Not stated.

---

## Document B2 — AI-Simplified Version

### [Overview of the Recipient Organization]

**Background to Its Establishment: Responding to Population Issues**

In the 1960s, the world's population was increasing rapidly, and how this would affect economic development became a major issue. In response, the United Nations prepared a report on population issues, and based on that report, decided to strengthen activities in the field of population.

**Activities of the Organization: Supporting People's Health and Rights**

This organization, which began its activities in 1969, now has 193 member countries and carries out concrete activities in more than 150 countries. Its main activities are as follows:
- Support for reproductive health: This is support to ensure that everyone has correct knowledge about their own body and can lead a safe and satisfying sex life, and to enable people to decide for themselves whether, when, and how many children to have.
- Provision of family planning information and services: Provides information and services to help avoid unwanted pregnancies and support the health and well-being of families.
- Support in the field of population and development: Considers the impact of population issues on the economy and society, and supports sustainable development. In other words, this is an activity that considers population issues together with economic development, environmental protection, and other factors in an integrated way.

**Cooperation with Japan: Liaison Office in Tokyo**

This organization has a Liaison Office in Tokyo and works together with Japan.

This organization can be described as an international organization working for the health and well-being of people around the world, and for a sustainable future.

### [Overview]

This contribution is used to help people around the world lead healthy and safe lives, with a particular focus on protecting the health of women and children. Specifically, it helps achieve the following three goals:

- **Protecting the lives and health of mothers and babies:** Pregnancy and childbirth are life-threatening events for both mothers and babies. By supporting safe childbirth and providing postnatal care, this contribution helps improve the health of mothers and newborns.
- **Helping women make their own decisions about their bodies and their lives:** This provides the information and services women need to make their own decisions about their bodies and about when to have children.
- **Helping everyone live safely and securely:** This helps people suffering due to conflict or disaster—particularly women and children—to live safely and securely.

Most of this contribution is used to cover the basic costs of UNFPA's activities around the world. A portion is used, through NGOs (private organizations) that cooperate with UNFPA, to provide support tailored to each region.

These activities also contribute to achieving the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). The SDGs are goals that countries around the world are working together to achieve by 2030.

In other words, this contribution plays a very important role in creating a future in which people around the world can live healthily, safely, and true to themselves.

### [Evaluation Criterion 1: Degree of contribution to the Japanese diplomatic policy objectives that this contribution aims to achieve]

**1-1 (1) Diplomatic policy objectives that this contribution aims to achieve**

This contribution is one means of achieving goals that Japan places importance on. These goals are the following two:

- **Advancing human security:** This is a concept aimed at ensuring that people's lives, livelihoods, and dignity are not threatened, so that they can live with peace of mind. Japan supports UNFPA's activities in order to spread this concept within the international community.
- **Making it possible for everyone to be healthy:** This is a concept aimed at ensuring that everyone can receive the medical care they need, when they need it. To achieve this goal, Japan supports, through UNFPA, the strengthening of health systems and countermeasures against infectious diseases in various countries and regions.

Japan also places importance on enabling women to be healthy and to live true to themselves.

*Women's health is also linked to the development of society as a whole:* Population changes—such as declining birthrates and aging populations, population increase or decrease, urbanization, migration, and conflict-driven displacement—have a major impact on our lives, society, and economy. In particular, women's health is deeply connected to pregnancy and childbirth, and it is important for women to be able to decide for themselves about their bodies and their lives. Japan cooperates with international organizations such as UNFPA to support activities that protect women's health and rights.

*Support for women is also essential during conflicts and disasters:* When conflicts or disasters occur, women and girls can be placed in especially dangerous situations. Japan supports women and girls in such situations—providing education and vocational training opportunities, protecting them from violence, and providing necessary medical care and support—so that women can participate actively in building a peaceful society.

**1-1 (2) Usefulness and importance of this contribution**

Around the world, the population continues to grow, and our activities are having a major impact on the planet. To create a sustainable and better society, it is essential to properly address population issues.

In particular, birth rates are high in Africa, there are youth employment challenges in Asia and Latin America, and developed countries are experiencing declining birthrates and aging populations. To solve these problems, it is important that women be able to decide for themselves about their bodies and their lives, and that women and young people be able to play active roles in society.

UNFPA works in more than 150 countries to address these challenges. Specifically, it carries out the following three types of activities:

- **Promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR):** Supports people so that everyone can obtain correct information about pregnancy and childbirth and make their own decisions.
- **Providing reproductive health and family planning information and services:** Ensures people can receive necessary medical care and services when they need them.
- **Supporting gender equality and population and development:** Provides education and vocational training opportunities for women and young people to play active roles in society, and works to eliminate discrimination and violence.

UNFPA supports people throughout their lives, based on an approach called the "life-cycle approach." In other words, it provides the support needed at each stage of life, from birth to adulthood to old age.

Japan has also stated, in its Global Health Strategy, that it will work with UNFPA to address population issues.

UNFPA operates based on the principles of "leaving no one behind" and "reaching the furthest behind first," working in humanitarian crises and developing countries. It places particular emphasis on strengthening health systems and training health personnel such as midwives.

These fields are deeply connected to culture and religion, which can make support difficult in some cases. However, UNFPA has long experience and a proven track record, and can deliver support to areas that Japan's own bilateral assistance cannot reach.

Foreign Minister Kamikawa has also highly praised UNFPA's activities, and has expressed particular hope for support for women and children. The G7 Foreign Ministers' Communiqué also confirmed the importance of promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights, and protecting against sexual and gender-based violence.

UNFPA also cooperates with other UN agencies and NGOs, providing more effective support by drawing on each organization's expertise.

In addition, as the only UN agency dealing exclusively with population issues, UNFPA also addresses the declining birthrate and aging population that Japan places importance on, meaning there are many activities that only UNFPA can carry out.

In other words, this contribution is used, through UNFPA, to contribute in various fields toward creating a future in which people around the world—especially women and children—can live healthily, safely, and true to themselves.

**1-2 Status of maintaining/securing a position through which Japan's intentions can be reflected**

Japan does not merely support the activities of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); it also participates in the important forums that determine its policies.

UNFPA has a meeting called the "Executive Board," which decides the direction of its activities. Japan has served as a member of this board many times. Between 2007 and 2021, Japan was a member for most of that period, and it has also been decided that Japan will be a member for many of the terms between 2022 and 2029. In 2023, Japan participated in all three Executive Board sessions held that year.

By participating in the Executive Board, Japan is able to confirm whether UNFPA's activities align with what Japan considers important, and to convey its views as needed.

Japan also holds regular discussions with UNFPA's office in Japan. Through these discussions, Japan ensures that its views and requests are properly conveyed to UNFPA headquarters.

In other words, Japan not only supports UNFPA financially, but also contributes to building a better world by being deeply involved in its policy decisions.

**1-3 Exchanges of dignitaries and policy dialogue**

Japan and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) maintain close cooperation through visits and exchanges of views between their representatives.

- **July 2022:** The Director of the UNFPA Liaison Office in Japan paid a courtesy call on the Foreign Minister and exchanged views on population issues.
- **April 2023:** At a conference held ahead of the G7 Hiroshima Summit, the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister exchanged views with UNFPA leadership and expressed support for UNFPA.
- **July 2023 and March 2024:** The UNFPA Executive Director and senior Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials held policy consultations online and in person, discussing future cooperation.
- **March 2024:** The UNFPA Executive Director paid a courtesy call on a Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, and exchanged views on the importance of sexual and reproductive health (SRHR) and Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
- **April 2024:** The UNFPA Deputy Executive Director paid a courtesy call on the Foreign Minister, and the two sides confirmed they would cooperate on advancing UHC and Women, Peace and Security (WPS).
- **April 2024:** At a parliamentary conference, the Foreign Minister expressed support for UNFPA and introduced the Japan Trust Fund (JTF), which supports parliamentarians' activities.
- **May 2024:** At a conference in Bangladesh, the UNFPA Executive Director and a Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs held talks and exchanged views on future cooperation.

Through these exchanges, Japan and UNFPA have deepened their shared understanding of common challenges—population issues, SRHR, UHC, and WPS—and strengthened their cooperative relationship.

**1-4 Involvement of Japan-related parties**

Contributions to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) play an important role not only for the Japanese government but also for many Japanese stakeholders.

*1. Partnerships with Japanese companies and universities*

Led by the Liaison Office in Japan, UNFPA has formed partnerships with many Japanese companies and universities, contributing to the promotion of the SDGs. These partnerships benefit Japanese companies, UNFPA, and the people who receive support, all alike.

- **Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited:** Implements emergency lifesaving services and support for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) in Africa and other countries.
- **Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd., TOKYO FM:** Co-hosted the cervical cancer prevention awareness project "Hellosmile," with the Liaison Office Director speaking at the event.
- **Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.:** Implemented cervical cancer prevention projects in Bhutan and Fiji, and provided funding to hire a consultant for the project at the Liaison Office in Japan.
- **Panasonic Corporation:** Provided solar lanterns to areas without electricity in Kenya, helping continue education and reduce the incidence of female genital mutilation (FGM).
- **Music Securities, Inc.:** Raises funds through a donation platform to support Ukraine, Turkey, and other causes.
- **Wesley Foundation:** Supports the development of a mobile application to counter gender-based violence (GBV) at the UNFPA Cambodia office.
- **ITOCHU Corporation:** Donates a portion of group companies' sales to the UNFPA Ethiopia office, and also supports production technology for items such as sanitary napkins.
- **NHK and six commercial broadcasters:** Ran a campaign disseminating information encouraging reflection on women's bodies and ways of living, to coincide with "International Women's Day."
- **fermata Inc.:** UNFPA supported Femtech Fes!, with the Liaison Office Director speaking at the event.
- **Japan Femtech Association:** The Liaison Office Director contributed a video message for the Japan Femtech Summit 2024.
- **2025 Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition:** As a technical advisor for the Osaka-Kansai Expo, UNFPA is cooperating on agenda content and the selection of speakers.
- **NEC Corporation:** In discussions to build a data management system for coupon distribution during humanitarian assistance.
- **Japan International Broadcasting Inc. (JIB):** Planning a program focused on digital violence.
- **Tokyo Institute of Technology, Nagoya City University, and others:** Have participated as speakers at various events and lectures.

*2. Cooperation with APDA/AFPPD/JPFP*

UNFPA also cooperates closely with the Asian Population and Development Association (APDA) and the Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population and Development (AFPPD). Working with these organizations, UNFPA has established the "SDGs, Human Security, and Population Alliance" and other initiatives, strengthening domestic and international activities related to population and development issues.

Through these activities, contributions to UNFPA are playing an important role not only for the Japanese government but also for a range of stakeholders in Japan—companies, NGOs/NPOs, and universities—in advancing their respective activities and contributing to society.

**1-5 Summary of the contribution's overall contribution**

This contribution plays a very important role in Japan's diplomacy.

First, UNFPA's activities align closely with Japan's goal of realizing a "society where women can shine." By providing support that takes into account the particular difficulties faced by women, including during disasters, UNFPA helps protect women's lives and health and supports their active role in society. This is also connected to the concept of "human security," which Japan places great importance on.

In particular, support for women suffering due to conflict or disaster contributes greatly to realizing Japan's "Third National Action Plan on WPS." This plan aims to provide women affected by conflict with education and vocational training opportunities, to protect them from violence, and to provide necessary medical care and support.

UNFPA is also the only UN agency dealing exclusively with population issues. It also addresses the declining birthrate and aging population that Japan places importance on; in April 2024, at a conference supported by Japan, parliamentarians from around the world gathered to discuss aging. This aligns with the Health and Well-being Initiatives that Japan promotes in Asia and Africa, and cooperating with UNFPA can produce greater results than Japan could achieve alone.

UNFPA's activities are also indispensable for achieving the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). In addition to the goals on health and gender equality, UNFPA contributes to a wide range of fields, including poverty reduction, correcting inequality, climate action, peacebuilding, and partnerships. In particular, by protecting the lives and rights of people in vulnerable circumstances, UNFPA contributes to building a society in which everyone can live with peace of mind.

UNFPA is highly valued and supported by countries around the world, as well as by many Japanese companies and organizations. In 2023, support exceeding its targets was gathered.

Japan, too, is showing the international community its proactive stance toward addressing global population issues, in cooperation with UNFPA. In November 2023 and May 2024, the Foreign Minister and a Parliamentary Vice-Minister emphasized cooperation with UNFPA at international conferences, expressing their intention to contribute to global population and development issues.

In this way, this contribution has made a major contribution to achieving Japan's diplomatic policy objectives, and cooperation with UNFPA has become indispensable for Japan in its efforts to build a better world.

### [Evaluation Criterion 2: Outcomes of the activities of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution]

**2-1 (1) [Core contribution only] Strategic objectives of the recipient organization**

UNFPA aims to achieve the following three goals by 2030:

- **Protecting mothers' lives:** Aims to ensure that not a single mother dies due to pregnancy or childbirth.
- **Eliminating violence against women and children:** Aims to eliminate things that harm women and children, such as gender-based violence and child marriage.
- **Ensuring everyone can access family planning services when needed:** Provides the information and services needed so that everyone can decide for themselves whether and when to have children.

To achieve these goals, UNFPA has established the "UNFPA Strategic Plan 2022-2025," which aims to achieve the following three things by 2025:

- **Reducing maternal deaths:** Aims to reduce the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 births to 124 by 2025.
- **Reducing gender-based violence and child marriage:** Aims to reduce the proportion of women aged 20-24 who were married before age 18 to 11% by 2025.
- **Improving access to family planning services:** Aims to reduce the proportion of people unable to access family planning services to 5% by 2025.

These activities also contribute to achieving the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). Specifically, they contribute to the goals on health (Goal 3), gender equality (Goal 5), reduced inequality (Goal 10), climate action (Goal 13), peace (Goal 16), and partnerships (Goal 17), and ultimately also contribute to eliminating poverty (Goal 1).

In other words, UNFPA has set out various goals and is working toward a future in which people around the world can live healthily, safely, and true to themselves.

**2-1 (2) [Core contribution only] Efforts by the recipient organization to achieve the strategic objectives in 2-1 above, and their outcomes**

Around the world, multiple crises are occurring, including climate change and economic instability. Amid this, based on its 2022-2025 plan, UNFPA achieved the following results in 2023.

First, in response to 50 humanitarian crises, UNFPA provided sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services to more than 10 million people. It also provided gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and response services to 4.2 million people.

In addition, the following specific results were achieved:
- 33,980 maternal deaths averted
- 5.85 million unsafe abortions averted
- 147,000 HIV infections prevented
- 17.96 million unintended pregnancies averted
- 85.8 million couple-years of protection (an indicator of the annual total supply of contraceptive methods)
- 162,044 girls protected from female genital mutilation (FGM)
- 8,697 women treated for obstetric fistula
- 6.4 million sexually transmitted infections averted
- 956,000 safe births supported during humanitarian crises in 39 countries

As a result of UNFPA's activities, the following policy commitments had been made by countries by 2023:
- 64 countries committed to zero preventable maternal deaths
- 61 countries committed to zero unmet need for family planning
- 60 countries committed to zero GBV
- 47 countries committed to zero child marriage
- 26 countries committed to zero FGM

Regarding the six goals under UNFPA's Strategic Plan 2022-2025, achievement in 2023 exceeded the target for three items, and reached close to 90% for the other three.

In addition, thanks to Japan's contribution, the Asian Population and Development Association (APDA) held meetings involving parliamentarians from developing countries in four regions.

- **Central and Eastern Europe (Tajikistan, Uzbekistan):** Discussed policies to address gender-based violence (GBV).
- **Arab region (Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt):** Discussed youth empowerment and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and confirmed that laws had been enacted based on past recommendations.
- **Africa (Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda):** Discussed sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), and confirmed that these would be reflected in each country's laws and policies.
- **Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Laos):** Held a workshop focused on youth, confirming the importance of investment in youth and adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH).

At these meetings, parliamentarians and experts from each country discussed population issues and gender equality, and made policy recommendations. The results of the meetings were compiled into a set of recommendations, which is expected to be considered by each country.

These activities are also made public through APDA's website and newsletter, in a way designed to make clear that this is support from Japan.

**2-3 Japan's efforts related to Evaluation Criterion 2 (including the recipient's response as a result)**

Japan has, through various opportunities, called on the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to strengthen its efforts to address population issues, including the declining birthrate and aging population.

As a result, in 2023, numerous events and international conferences on population and development were held, and Japan's knowledge of its declining birthrate and its contribution to international cooperation were widely introduced.

In particular, the ICPD30 Global Dialogue "Demographic Diversity and Sustainable Development," held in May 2024, was the realization of the "strengthening of activities addressing population issues" that Japan had previously requested from UNFPA.

In other words, through dialogue with UNFPA, Japan is conveying its views and working to ensure they are reflected in actual activities.

### [Evaluation Criterion 3: Organizational and administrative/financial management of the international organization (or other recipient) receiving the contribution]

**3-1 Overview of the financial statements, etc. relating to this contribution**

*About the management of funds*

UNFPA's accounting period runs from January to December. The report on the funds Japan provided in FY2023 was published in June 2024. If a report is not issued as scheduled, the reasons will be confirmed. By the way, the report on the funds provided in FY2024 is expected to be issued around June 2025.

*About the use and checking of funds*

**Funds used for basic activities (core contribution)**
The most recent report shows the overall movement of UNFPA's funds for all of 2023. The funds Japan provided in FY2023 are recorded as UNFPA's revenue for 2023. UNFPA's 2023 revenue exceeded its target, but expenditure also slightly exceeded revenue. This is because there is a slight difference in the timing of when funds are counted.

**Funds used for specific activities (non-core contribution)**
When activities funded by this money are completed, a report is issued within six months, and Japan confirms its contents. For three activities carried out with funds provided in FY2020, reports have been issued and their contents confirmed. For three activities carried out with funds provided in FY2021, reports have not yet been issued; they are expected around July 2024.

**Checking of funds (audit)**
UNFPA's management of funds is strictly checked by UN experts, and has received an assessment of no problems for 13 consecutive years. UNFPA's financial condition is assessed as very good. Within UNFPA, evaluation and improvement of whether activities are properly achieving their goals is also repeatedly carried out.

In other words, UNFPA properly manages its funds and properly reports on its activities.

**3-2 Organizational and administrative/financial management surrounding this contribution project**

*3-2(1) Status of improvement in UNFPA's organizational operations*

UNFPA is steadily making improvements in response to findings from UN audit bodies. In the 2022 audit, it had addressed 75% of previous findings, and in the 2023 audit, it had already addressed about 40% of new findings.

UNFPA has also reviewed its Strategic Plan for 2022-2025, and, as expected revenue has increased, has adjusted its budget accordingly. In particular, it is increasing activity costs and reducing the share allocated to organizational operating costs, in order to use funds more efficiently.

These efforts show that, while pursuing various forms of fundraising, UNFPA is making the most of the funds it raises and working to translate them into results.

*3-2(2) Regarding improper conduct*

No improper conduct has been reported in UNFPA's organizational operations.

*3-2(3) Japan's engagement and efforts*

As a member of UNFPA's Executive Board, Japan continually checks UNFPA's financial situation and organizational operations, and encourages improvements as needed.

Japan also works with UNFPA headquarters and offices in each country, centered on UNFPA's Liaison Office in Japan, sharing information and calling for improvements regarding matters such as the active roles of Japanese staff, cooperation with Japanese companies, and public relations activities.

In particular, Japan has called on UNFPA to strengthen its cooperation with private companies; as a result, UNFPA has continued and expanded its partnerships with many Japanese companies.

Furthermore, as a uniquely Japanese initiative, Japan makes use of a Japanese-language platform that accepts donations from individuals and organizations, to help raise funds for UNFPA's activities.

Through these efforts, Japan is contributing to improving UNFPA's organizational operations and activities.

### [Evaluation Criterion 4: Status of Japanese staff and posts, etc.]

**4-1 Status of Japanese staff and posts (professional-level and above; in principle as of the end of December 2023)**

In 2023, the number of Japanese staff was 15, an increase of 0.67 compared with the average of 14.33 over the previous three years. UNFPA's total staff in 2023 was 923.

*Change in the number of Japanese senior staff*

The number of Japanese senior staff over the past three years was 2, and remained unchanged at 2 in 2023. The total number of senior staff in 2023 was 101.

*Qualitative circumstances*

- The UNFPA Liaison Office in Japan has participated in a workshop hosted by Sophia University, introducing UNFPA's activities and the skills needed to work at an international organization, as part of its efforts to support the recruitment and promotion of Japanese staff.
- The UNFPA Liaison Office in Japan actively uses its website and social media to disseminate information such as vacancy announcements.
- The UNFPA Liaison Office in Japan accepts interns on an ongoing basis, providing opportunities for Japanese nationals to be hired by international organizations, including cases where former interns have been hired as Junior Professional Officers (JPOs).

This information shows that the number of Japanese staff at UNFPA is on an upward trend, that the number of Japanese senior staff has remained steady, and that the UNFPA Liaison Office in Japan is undertaking various efforts to promote the recruitment and promotion of Japanese staff.

**4-2 Reasonable grounds, if this contribution is not to be treated as subject to evaluation under Criterion 4**

Not stated.