2016年04月の記事
全30件 (30件中 1-30件目)
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安保違憲訴訟 司法の真価が問われる
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 29EDITORIAL: Judiciary can’t afford to duck concerns about security laws（社説）安保違憲訴訟 司法の真価が問われる About 500 citizens have sued the government over national security legislation enacted last year, claiming the legislation is unconstitutional because it allows Japan to engage in collective self-defense. 集団的自衛権の行使を認めた安保関連法は憲法に反するとして、市民ら約５００人が東京地裁に訴えをおこした。今後も各地で提訴が予定されている。The lawsuit, filed with the Tokyo District Court on April 26, demands a court order to block any Self-Defense Forces deployment under the security laws, which passed the Diet last September and came into force on March 29. Similar legal actions are expected in various parts of the nation.The judiciary should respond head-on to the vital constitutional questions raised by these suits. The courts should fulfill their judicial responsibility by making their own constitutional judgments on the matter. The Supreme Court, the guardian of the Constitution, should then make the final decision. 裁判所は、正面からこの問いに答えてもらいたい。各地での判決を積み重ねたうえで、憲法の番人である最高裁が最終判断を示す。その司法の責務をまっとうしてほしい。We should remember the Diet debate on the security bills submitted last year by the administration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. 昨年の安保法制の国会審議を思い起こしたい。Many legal experts, including constitutional scholars and former Supreme Court justices, denounced the legislation as “a violation of the Constitution” and “a denial of constitutionalism.” Many Japanese were disturbed by the government’s explanations about its interpretation of related constitutional provisions that were clearly at odds with past government statements. 多くの憲法学者や元最高裁判事らが、「違憲である」「立憲主義の否定だ」と声をあげた。過去の政府答弁と明らかに食い違う憲法解釈の説明に、疑問を感じる国民も多かった。But the government and ruling camp dismissed all these criticisms, saying it is the Supreme Court that has the mandate to make the final judgment on the constitutionality of laws. The government also argued that one top court ruling is more important than 100 theories. Eventually, the ruling coalition rammed the bills through the Diet by using its dominant parliamentary majority. しかし政府与党は「違憲かどうか最後に判断するのは最高裁だ」「１００の学説より一つの最高裁判決だ」と反論し、数の力で法を成立させた。The administration’s policy of heeding only what the Supreme Court says in dealing with constitutional issues related to the legislation should not be taken as a sign of respect for the judiciary. 耳を貸す相手は最高裁でしかないという政権の姿勢を、そのまま司法への敬意の表れと受け取るわけにはいかない。Through personnel changes, the Abe administration effectively stripped the Cabinet Legislation Bureau, the watchdog of legislative actions, of its ability to check bills from the legal point of view. そもそも安倍政権は政府内の「法の番人」だった内閣法制局への人事措置により、チェック機能をそいだ。The Diet, the nation’s legislature, proved to be ruled by the dictates of the majority.立法府である国会も数の論理が支配した。The role of the judiciary as one of the three branches of government under the checks and balances system has never been as important as it is now. 三権分立の一翼を担う司法の役割が、いまほど重く問われているときはない。The plaintiffs of the latest lawsuit are demanding compensation for what they say is a violation of their constitutional right to live in peace. They also claim the people’s right to amend and determine the Constitution has been violated by the effective change to war-renouncing Article 9 made by the administration without following the formal procedure for constitutional amendments. 原告側は、平和に生きる権利を侵されたとして、賠償などを求めている。憲法改正手続きを経ずに９条を実質的に変えられてしまい、国民の「憲法改正・決定権」が侵害されたと訴えている。Past court rulings on lawsuits over such constitutional issues indicate that the plaintiffs face high hurdles. これまでの判例を振り返れば原告側のハードルは高い。Conventional wisdom in the Japanese judicial community says courts should not judge the constitutionality of specific laws unless there are concrete legal disputes that require such judgment. 日本の裁判では、具体的な争いがなければ、法律が合憲か違憲かを判断できないとされる。A court refused to hear another lawsuit seeking the annulment of the new security laws, saying such a demand is inappropriate for judicial determination.抽象的に安保法の廃止などを求めた別の訴訟は「審査の対象にならない」と門前払いされた。The consensus view among judicial experts is that even if a court decides to hear such a lawsuit, a constitutional judgment should not be made unless it is necessary for settling a dispute involving concrete interests. 審査に入ったとしても、憲法判断は訴えの解決に必要な場合以外は行わないという考えが、司法関係者の間では一般的だ。Given the history of court rulings in this type of case, courts may opt to avoid making any constitutional judgment while rejecting the plaintiffs’ demand for compensation. 今回も裁判所がその考え方に立てば、賠償の求めを退けるだけで、憲法判断は避ける方向に傾くこともありえる。But the plaintiffs of the latest lawsuit include relatives of SDF personnel and residents living near military bases. 原告には自衛隊員の親族や、基地周辺の住民らも名を連ねている。They need to make concrete arguments regarding their specific interests to persuade the court to hear the case.裁判というテーブルに議論を載せるためにも、具体的な主張をめざしてほしい。At the heart of their lawsuit is serious anxiety about the government’s lack of respect for the basic principles of constitutionalism. 訴えの根本にあるのは、立憲主義を軽んじる政治のあり方に対する深刻な危機感である。The judiciary should make sincere responses to the constitutional questions raised by these lawsuits without trivializing them. 憲法をめぐる真剣な問いを、裁判所は矮小（わいしょう）化することなく、真摯（しんし）に受け止めるべきだ。The courts should not act in a way that will only further undermine public confidence in the governing system.国の統治機構への信頼をこれ以上損なってはならない。
Apr 30, 2016
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豪潜水艦に落選 装備輸出の司令塔作りを急げ
The Yomiuri ShimbunControl tower urgently needed for export of defense equipment豪潜水艦に落選 装備輸出の司令塔作りを急げIt is important to scrupulously examine the reason Japan lost its bid for the contract and rebuild the government’s preparedness for exporting defense equipment. 失敗の原因をきちんと検証し、防衛装備品を輸出する政府の態勢を立て直すことが肝要だ。With Japan, Germany and France competing to build next-generation submarines for Australia, Canberra selected a French company as its partner. 豪州が、日独仏３か国が参画を目指した次期潜水艦計画で、フランス企業との共同開発を選択した。In accordance with the three principles on the transfer of defense equipment and technology, the Japanese government, jointly with the private sector, had proposed building a fleet based on the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s most advanced Soryu-class submarine, manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. and other companies. 日本は、防衛装備移転３原則に基づき、三菱重工業などが建造する海上自衛隊の最新鋭潜水艦「そうりゅう型」を官民合同で提案したが、受注を逃した。Soryu-class submarines are equipped with the world’s most advanced technology. They excel in cruising capability, silent running to evade detection when navigating underwater, sonar detection and other attributes. そうりゅう型の技術は世界最高水準とされる。航続性能や、敵に気づかれずに潜行する静粛性、水中音波探知機能などに優れる。The huge contract, worth about 50 billion Australian dollars (¥4.3 trillion), was for the construction of 12 submarines. It would have become Japan’s first full-fledged export of defense equipment. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said, “It was a disappointing result.” １２隻で総事業費約５００億豪ドル（４兆３０００億円）の大型案件で、実現すれば、日本初の本格的な装備品輸出となった。安倍首相は「残念な結果だ」と語った。It is reasonable for Defense Minister Gen Nakatani to have indicated his intention to seek an explanation from Australia as to why Japan was not awarded the contract and learn lessons for future bids. 中谷防衛相が、豪州に選定理由の説明を求め、今後の教訓とする考えを示したのは当然である。Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said, “The French offer represented the capabilities best able to meet Australia’s unique needs.” ターンブル豪首相は、「フランスの提案が、豪州特有の要求に最も合致した」と述べた。As Australia’s economy has slowed, uncertainty over the country’s employment situation is spreading. France had emphasized it would make a full-scale technology transfer, help foster Australian companies and create jobs in that country. 豪州で景気の減速により雇用不安が広がる中、フランスは全面的な技術移転や、豪州企業の育成、積極的な雇用を訴えていた。As Turnbull intends to dissolve Parliament shortly, his selection may also reflect his decision to focus on the economy with the election in mind. ターンブル氏は近く議会を解散する意向で、選挙をにらんだ経済重視の判断もあったのだろう。But for building submarines, a military perspective is important under normal circumstances. We cannot agree with the choice if it was made by placing priority on the political situation. だが、本来、潜水艦建造は軍事の観点が重要だ。政局を優先したのなら、うなずけない。Experience lackingMeanwhile, it is undeniable that Japan, while being overconfident in its high level of technology and paying little heed to its ratio of local production in Australia, failed to accurately comprehend either Australia’s needs or the moves taken by France and Germany in their bids, and did not exercise flexibility in taking the measures needed. This failure may have stemmed from the little experience MHI and other companies have in negotiating defense equipment deals with foreign countries. 日本も、自らの技術の高さを過信し、現地生産の割合を低く抑えたまま、豪州のニーズや仏独の動きを的確に把握せず、柔軟に対策を講じなかったのは否めない。三菱重工業などに装備品輸出交渉の経験が乏しかったためだろう。It is crucial to build within such offices as the national security secretariat of the Cabinet Secretariat a framework to comprehensively analyze and assess business chances and domestic political circumstances of countries concerned, in addition to security issues, and establish a control tower to carry out such tasks. 内閣官房の国家安全保障局などに、安全保障に加え、ビジネスや各国の内政事情などを総合的に分析・判断する枠組みと、その司令塔を構築することが急務だ。Sufficient manpower should be mustered from such economy-related ministries as the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry as well as from private companies. Also needed is to have a vision on implementing a growth strategy. 経済産業省などの経済官庁や、民間企業からも人材を集める必要がある。成長戦略の視点を持つことも欠かせない。Needless to say, measures to prevent the leakage of technologies to third-party countries are essential. We can understand that cautious views were expressed within the MSDF and other entities over Japan’s provision of technology to Australia. 無論、第三国への技術流出防止策は徹底すべきだ。今回、海自などに豪州への技術供与に慎重論があったことは理解できる。Also worrisome is that China is said to have urged Australia not to accept Japan’s proposal this time. If Canberra turned down Japan’s bid by giving too much consideration to Beijing, we cannot overlook it. 気がかりなのは、中国が今回、日本案の不採用を豪州に働きかけていたとされることだ。豪州が中国に過剰に配慮し、日本案を退けたのであれば、見過ごせない。Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott had recognized the importance of security cooperation among Japan, the United States and Australia. The Turnbull administration should explain what sort of role it will assume for the stability of the Asia-Pacific region. アボット前首相は、日米豪の安保協力の重要性を認識していた。ターンブル政権は、アジア・太平洋地域の安定にどんな役割を果たすのか、説明せねばならない。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 28, 2016)
Apr 29, 2016
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ヘイト法案 反差別の姿勢を明確に
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 27EDITORIAL: Thorough talks needed to block abuse of planned hate speech law（社説）ヘイト法案 反差別の姿勢を明確に A bill to outlaw hate speech, sponsored by the ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito, is currently under deliberation in the Upper House Legal Affairs Committee. 乱暴な言葉で特定の人種や民族への差別をあおるヘイトスピーチを、どうなくしていくか。 自民、公明の両与党が国会に出した対策法案の審議が、参院法務委員会で続いている。With the opposition camp having already presented a similar bill to the Diet last year, all Japanese political parties are at least in agreement that legislative measures must be taken to eliminate hate speech, which fans vile discrimination against certain ethnic groups. 野党側はすでに昨年、独自案を出しており、少なくとも与野党は、法整備の必要性では一致したことになる。But legal scholars are strongly concerned that such legislation could threaten freedom of expression depending on how it is enforced. Indeed, determining the conditions of enforcement will be a difficult and complex matter. 運用次第では「表現の自由」を脅かしかねないとして、法学者らの間には慎重論も根強い。確かに、何を対象にどう規制するか難しい問題をはらむ。However, hate speech has shown no signs of abating in recent years. In a lawsuit against a citizens group that attacked the Tokushima prefectural union of teachers for donating money to a Korean school, the Takamatsu High Court on April 25 ruled that the group’s activities “represented an attitude of racial discrimination,” and it ordered the group to pay damages to the teachers’ union. だが近年、ヘイトスピーチは収まる気配がない。高松高裁は一昨日、朝鮮学校に寄付をした徳島県教組を攻撃した団体の活動を「人種差別的思想の現れ」と認め、賠償を命じた。Hate-filled invectives against minorities, such as “get out of Japan,” are uttered nationwide. These human rights violations cannot be allowed to continue. We definitely believe the time has come to take some sort of legislative action. 少数派を標的に「日本から出て行け」といった差別をあおる言説は各地でみられる。人権侵害をもはや放置するわけにはいかない。何らかの立法措置も必要な段階に至ったと考える。Neither the ruling coalition-sponsored bill nor its opposition counterpart contains punitive provisions against offenders. While we would like both bills to clearly spell out that discrimination can never be condoned as a matter of basic human decency, we also believe that utmost care must be taken to ensure the legislation will not infringe upon freedom of expression. 与野党両案ともに罰則規定はなく、理念法にとどまる。社会の最低限のルールとして差別は許されないことを明記すべきだが、一方で「表現の自由」を侵さないよう最大限の配慮をする姿勢は崩してはなるまい。The United Nations considers it a problem that Japan, which ratified the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination 21 years ago, still has no laws against racial discrimination. It has now become Japan’s obligation to the international community to declare a firm stance against discrimination of any sort against any race or nationality. 国連は、人種差別撤廃条約を２１年前に批准した日本で国内法が整っていないことを問題視している。人種や国籍を問わず、差別に反対する姿勢を明示するのは国際的な要請でもある。We hope the ruling and opposition parties will set aside their petty political interests and forge a consensus after thoroughly debating the issue and with complete transparency, from the standpoint of defending universal human rights. 与野党は、狭い政治的利害を超え、普遍的な人権を守る見地から透明性のある議論を重ね、合意を築いてほしい。Diet deliberations in the days ahead are expected to focus on the LDP-Komeito bill. But there are some problems with the legislation. 今後の審議は与党案が軸になるだろうが、問題点がある。For instance, the bill defines victims of discrimination as “non-Japanese-born people and their descendants.” But the indigenous Ainu people of Japan have been subjected to discrimination. To make this right, we believe the ruling coalition should adopt the opposition-sponsored bill’s broader definition of victims as “non-Japanese races and ethnic groups.” 与党案は差別的言動を受けている対象者を「本邦外出身者とその子孫」としている。だが、これまでアイヌ民族なども標的となってきた。ここは「人種や民族」と対象を広げた野党案を採り入れるべきだ。Another problem we see with the LDP-Komeito bill is that it will apply only to “legal aliens residing in Japan.” We find this hard to comprehend. また、与党案が「適法に居住する（本邦外）出身者」と対象を限定しているのも理解に苦しむ。Discrimination in itself has nothing to do with the victim’s residency status. If this is left uncorrected, this bill could hurt those who are in the process of applying for refugee status.在留資格の有無は本来、差別と無関係であり、難民申請者らに被害がおよびかねない。In the past, the LDP manifested its intent to manipulate the hate speech issue to its own convenience. LDP legislators made statements hinting at applying hate speech legislation against anti-U.S. base activists and protesters opposed to nuclear power generation. 自民党ではこれまで、ヘイトスピーチを本来の趣旨とは異なる形で利用しようとする言動があった。脱原発デモや米軍基地への反対運動への法の適用を示唆するような発言があった。Such abuse of the law by politicians is exactly what we fear. 懸念されるのは、まさにそうした政治や行政による乱用である。For the law to fully serve its intended purpose of eliminating all racial and ethnic discrimination, its non-arbitrary and appropriate enforcement must be guaranteed. And thorough discussion is also needed on how to monitor the enforcement of this law.人種や民族に対する差別行為をなくす本来の目的のために、恣意（しい）的でない的確な運用をいかに担保するか。その監視のあり方も十分論議すべきだ。
Apr 28, 2016
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ハンセン病 司法の差別、決着せぬ
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 26EDITORIAL: Doubts remain after top court apologizes for leprosy trials（社説）ハンセン病 司法の差別、決着せぬ The Supreme Court has officially admitted it made a serious mistake by allowing lower courts to hold criminal and other trials for leprosy patients outside regular courtrooms. But the mea culpa from the top court, which is regarded as the “bastion of human rights,” doesn’t answer key constitutional questions. 「人権の砦（とりで）」たる最高裁として、これで問題が決着したといえるのだろうか。The Supreme Court on April 25 officially apologized to former leprosy patients and other people who suffered from this practice, saying it “deeply regrets having degraded the personalities and dignity of the patients and apologizes.” ハンセン病患者の裁判がかつて、隔離された「特別法廷」で開かれていたことをめぐり、最高裁はきのう、元患者らに「患者の人格と尊厳を傷つけたことを深く反省し、お詫（わ）びする」と謝罪した。The top court acknowledged that its approvals of the special separate trials for leprosy sufferers were discriminatory in nature and violated the court organization law. 裁判を隔離した判断のあり方は差別的だった疑いが強く、裁判所法に違反すると認めた。It is extremely unusual for the nation’s highest court to admit having made a misjudgment concerning judicial procedures and offering such an apology. It took a step in the right direction by examining the issue.最高裁が司法手続き上の判断の誤りを認めて謝罪するのは極めて異例であり、検証作業をしたこと自体は評価できるだろう。However, the key question in this controversy was the constitutionality of the policy. The top court concluded that the “special trials” didn’t violate the constitutional principle of open trials. だが、注目された違憲性の判断に関しては、憲法上の「裁判の公開」の原則には反しない、と結論づけた。The Supreme Court should ask itself whether this conclusion is acceptable to former patients and their families who suffered from discrimination and prejudices against leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease. 果たしてハンセン病への差別や偏見に苦しめられてきた元患者や家族に受け入れられる判断だろうか。The opinions of the court’s expert panel on the issue, released at the same time, raised two important constitutional questions. 同時に公表された最高裁の有識者委員会の意見は、憲法上の二つの点で疑問を突きつけている。First, the panel said there is no denying that the special trials for leprosy patients violated the constitutional principle of equality under the law. Secondly, the panel argued that it is hard not to suspect that the policy also violated the constitutional principle of public trials.まず、法の下の平等に照らして特別法廷は「違反していたといわざるを得ない」と断じている。さらに裁判の公開原則についても「違憲の疑いは、なおぬぐいきれない」とした。In 2005, an independent inquiry panel set up by the health ministry had already pointed out similar constitutional questions concerning the practice. すでに０５年、厚生労働省が設けた検証会議も、同様の憲法上の問題点を指摘していた。It is difficult to claim that the Supreme Court’s conclusion, issued after many years of failing to respond to the criticism, offers convincing, straightforward answers to these questions.それを長く放置してきた最高裁が出した今回の判断は、たび重なる指摘に正面から答えたとは言いがたい。The health ministry’s panel referred to a controversial murder trial of a man from Kumamoto Prefecture who was said to have leprosy. In this case, known as the “Kikuchi Incident,” the defendant was eventually executed despite claiming his innocence. 検証会議はこの時、ハンセン病患者とされた熊本県の男性が殺人罪に問われ、無実を訴えながら死刑執行された「菊池事件」にも言及していた。The ministry panel said the man had effectively been tried in a closed-door proceeding.男性が裁かれた特別法廷について、「いわば『非公開』の状態で進行した」と指摘していた。The Supreme Court started looking into this issue after it received a demand for an examination of the legitimacy of the special trials. The demand came from lawyers and former leprosy patients who were seeking a retrial for the Kumamoto man. 事件の再審を求める弁護団や元患者らが、特別法廷の正当性の検討を最高裁に求めて始まったのが今回の検証だった。Unsurprisingly, an organization of former leprosy patients involved in this campaign has denounced the top court’s failure to acknowledge the unconstitutionality of the practice. The organization said it strongly demands that the court “sincerely admit its own mistake.”それだけに元患者団体は「自らの誤りを真摯（しんし）に認めることを強く求める」と、違憲性を認めなかったことに反発している。In its probe into the matter, the Supreme Court avoided making any judgment about individual cases on the grounds of the independence of judges. 今回の最高裁の検証では、「裁判官の独立」を理由に、個別の事件の判断は避けられた。But flawed judicial procedures could cast doubts on the appropriateness of the trials themselves.だが、手続きに問題があれば、裁判そのものに疑いが生じかねない。The top court should have scrutinized individual cases for possible relief for victims and restoration of their honor.本来なら個別事件も検証し、被害救済や名誉回復まで考慮すべきだろう。The judiciary should seriously consider any request for a retrial from a victim of the system.今後、再審請求があれば、裁判所は真剣に対応すべきだ。The challenge facing the Japanese judiciary is how to use the results of the investigation to promote efforts to eliminate discrimination and prejudices from society. 差別や偏見のない社会に少しでも近づけるために、今回の検証をどう役立てるのか。The Supreme Court should move beyond this apology and continue performing its responsibility to tackle this challenge.謝罪を超え、最高裁はさらにその責任を負い続けなくてはならない。
Apr 27, 2016
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震災避難 障害者への支援確保を
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 24EDITORIAL: Improved system needed to assist disabled people in disasters（社説）震災避難 障害者への支援確保をMany people with disabilities have been unable to enter crucially important evacuation shelters in areas hit hard by the recent succession of earthquakes in Kumamoto and other prefectures. 熊本県を中心に続く震災で、命をつなぐはずの避難所に入れない障害者が続出している。“I was told that people on wheelchairs are not allowed because the hall has bumps on the floor,” one of them said. 「ホールに段差があり、車いすの人は入れないと断られた」“I got no information from anywhere, so I spent nights in a car for a week,” said another. 「どこからも情報が来ず、１週間、車中泊を続けた」“Welfare evacuation shelters” were supposed to be set up for people with disabilities and elderly people, who would find it difficult to live in evacuation shelters for the general public. 一般の避難所では生活が難しい障害者や高齢者には、「福祉避難所」が用意されるはずだった。Welfare evacuation shelters refer to schools, welfare facilities and other institutions that have signed agreements with municipal governments in preparation for a possible disaster.災害に備えて、あらかじめ市区町村と協定を結んだ学校や福祉施設などである。But the system failed in the face of the real earthquake disaster. だが、震災の現実の前には、うまく機能しなかった。Some 35,000 people in Kumamoto, the capital of Kumamoto Prefecture, are registered as “persons requiring support,” who were expected to need help in evacuating from a disaster. 熊本市では、避難の際に手助けが要る「要支援者」の名簿に登録された人は約３万５千人いる。While 176 institutions had signed agreements to serve as welfare evacuation shelters, the number of institutions that actually accepted people in need was slow to grow.これに対し、福祉避難所の協定をもつ施設は１７６あったが、実際に受け入れる施設はなかなか増えなかった。Some of the institutions were short-staffed because care providers became quake victims themselves. Some of the buildings were destroyed, and water supply was cut. ケアする人が被災して人手不足だったり、建物が壊れて水道も止まったりと、施設の環境が整わなかった事情がある。After volunteer workers were recruited, 33 welfare evacuation shelters were opened by April 22. But only 80-odd people have entered those shelters. Officials at one shelter have complained that all they can do is to provide space because they cannot afford to provide assistance. ボランティアを募り、２２日までにやっと３３カ所が開設した。だが入所者は８０人超どまり。介助の余裕がなく場所の提供しかできない、と嘆く施設もある。People with disabilities and others who remain out of welfare evacuation shelters may face serious difficulties from the prolonged consequences of the earthquake disaster. Checking for their safety has turned out to be more difficult than initially expected. 福祉避難所に入れない障害者らにとって、長引く震災は深刻な生活苦をもたらす。安否確認も思うように進まなかった。Given the situation, Kumamoto Gakuen University has been drawing attention for its activities. The university in Kumamoto city has made its presence felt by accepting up to 60 or so people who are disabled or elderly. こうした中、熊本市の熊本学園大の活動が注目されている。最大６０人ほどの障害者や高齢者を受け入れ、存在感を示す。Initially, the university only had its athletic field designated as a wide-area evacuation ground. As local residents began to assemble on its campus amid the succession of powerful earthquakes, however, the university decided to let local inhabitants use four of its classrooms. もともとはグラウンドが広域避難場所に指定されていただけだったが、相次ぐ強震で住民が集まり始めたため、４教室を住民に開放した。It also designated a grand hall in one of its buildings for exclusive use by "persons requiring support." University officials have arranged a framework, whereby certified care workers with connections to the university and volunteering students are available 24 hours a day to watch those evacuees who require support.さらに校舎内の大ホールを要支援者専用にし、大学関係の介護福祉士や学生ボランティアらが２４時間、避難者を見守る態勢をつくった。The law on the elimination of disability discrimination, which took effect this month, says public institutions are obliged to “provide reasonable accommodation.” They are supposed to respond, to a reasonable extent, to the requests of disabled people to eliminate social barriers.Kumamoto Gakuen University’s undertaking is a pioneering attempt at fleshing out the spirit of that law. 今月施行された障害者差別解消法は、「合理的配慮の提供」を公的機関の義務と定めている。障害者から社会的な障壁を取り除く要請があれば、無理ない範囲で対応する。その精神を実現する先駆的な試みだ。Two professors at the university, who were involved in opening the evacuation shelter, have worked with groups of disabled people and their supporters to set up a “center for people with disabilities in disaster areas.” 避難所づくりに携わった同大の教授２人は障害者・支援者団体と協力して「被災地障害者センター」も設けた。Instead of bringing disabled people together in a single evacuation shelter, the center will serve as a hub for providing appropriate information to people with disabilities in different areas, and will continue to give them necessary support until they can return to their previous lifestyles.一つの避難所に集約するのではなく、各地の障害者に適切な情報を提供する拠点となり、元の生活に戻るまで必要な支援を続ける。Close to 80,000 people continue to live in evacuation following the Kumamoto earthquakes. And it is never easy for people with disabilities to live the same way as people without disabilities. 避難者は今も８万人近い。その中で障害者らは、健常者と同じように暮らすのは難しい。In normal times, we should prepare mechanisms, for example, to use the list of “persons requiring support” to determine their safety status in emergencies and to allow welfare institutions to dispatch staff members to each other on a broader regional scale.要支援者名簿をもとに安否を確認する仕組みや、広域で福祉施設同士が職員を派遣し合う枠組みなどを平時から準備したい。Doing so would be one way to prepare for the next disaster, which could hit any part of Japan.日本中どこで起きるかわからない「次の災害」に備えて。
Apr 26, 2016
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原発４０年規制 早くも骨抜きなのか
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 21EDITORIAL: 40-year rule for nuclear reactors on verge of being a dead letter（社説）原発４０年規制 早くも骨抜きなのか The 40-year lifespan for nuclear reactors, established after the catastrophic accident at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant in 2011, is now in danger of being watered down to irrelevance.The rule requires the decommissioning of aging reactors, starting with the oldest, for a gradual, carefully controlled process of phasing out nuclear power generation in this country. 古い原発は廃炉とし、計画的に原発の数を減らしていく――東京電力福島第一原発事故への反省から決めたルールが、早くも骨抜きになろうとしている。The Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) on April 20 formally decided that the No. 1 and No. 2 reactors at Kansai Electric Power Co.’s Takahama nuclear power plant in Fukui Prefecture, which have been in service for over 40 years, meet new nuclear safety standards introduced after the devastating 2011 accident. 原子力規制委員会は、運転開始から４０年を超えた関西電力高浜原発１、２号機（福井県）について、新規制基準を満たしていると正式に決めた。This is the first license renewal for a reactor that has been in operation for more than four decades under the new standards.新基準のもとで４０年超の老朽原発の運転延長が認められるのは初めてだ。If they pass the remaining regulatory inspections concerning technical details by the July deadline, the reactors will likely continue to generate electricity for two more decades.残る細かい審査を７月の期限までに終えれば、あと２０年、運転が続く公算が大きい。The 40-year lifespan provision was introduced through a revision to the law after the Fukushima disaster. 「４０年ルール」は福島での事故後、法律を改正して導入された。Just one service life extension of up to 20 years is allowed, but only as an “extremely exceptional” measure.「１回だけ、最長２０年間」と定められた運転延長は「極めて例外的」と位置づけられた。This exception was made to avoid a shortage of electricity. But concerns about any serious power crunch have virtually dissipated thanks to a marked rise in levels of power and energy conservation in society.あえて例外を設けたのは電力不足に備えるためだったが、節電や省エネの定着で懸念は解消していると言っていい。The NRA’s formal decision to extend the life of the two aging reactors came amid a series of earthquakes rocking central Kyushu around Kumamoto Prefecture which have been described by the Japan Meteorological Agency as “a deviation from the rules extracted from past experiences.” おりしも熊本県を中心に「今までの経験則からはずれている」（気象庁）という地震が続く。Many Japanese are concerned that the quakes could affect Kyushu Electric Power’s Sendai nuclear plant in neighboring Kagoshima Prefecture. The NRA’s decision to grant an exception to the rule so quickly could have the effect of relaxing the safety standards and deepening public distrust of the government’s nuclear regulation.隣の鹿児島県で運転中の九州電力川内原発に影響が及ばないか、不安を感じている国民は少なくない。いきなり例外を認め、規制のたがを緩めるような対応は、原発行政への不信を高めるだけではないか。The Abe administration is leaving all licensing decisions on individual reactors entirely to the NRA. But it has mapped out a long-term energy supply plan based on the assumption that the service life of reactors will be extended. 安倍政権は個別原発の可否の判断を規制委に丸投げしつつ、運転延長を前提にしたエネルギー計画を立てた。Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who repeatedly pledged to lower Japan’s dependence on nuclear power as much as possible, has been changing his stance little by little without announcing any clear policy shift.「原発依存度を可能な限り低減する」と繰り返していた首相は、なしくずしに方針を転換してきた。The NRA’s mission is to enhance the safety of nuclear plants from a scientific viewpoint.But the way the nuclear watchdog assessed the safety of the reactors at the Takahama plant has raised questions about its appropriateness. The NRA has, for instance, allowed Kansai Electric Power to delay required quake resistance tests. 規制委は、あくまで科学的見地から原発の安全性を高めることが役割だが、今回の審査では耐震性の試験を後回しにすることを関電に認めるなど、手順に疑問が残る。If it has scheduled its assessment work in a way to ensure that the July deadline will be met, the agency has got its priorities completely wrong.７月の審査期限をにらんだスケジュールありきだったとすれば、まさに本末転倒である。A troubling situation is now emerging where decisions on whether to decommission specific reactors are effectively left to the utilities that operate them. As a result, these decisions are being based primarily on whether extending the life of the reactors will pay. 結局、廃炉にするかどうかの実質的な判断は電力会社に委ねられ、運転延長が採算に合うかどうかという観点から決まるという状況になりつつある。Operating many nuclear reactors in Japan, a small country with a large population that is highly prone to earthquakes and other natural disasters, inevitably entails a large risk. 狭い国土に多くの人が住み、地震など自然災害も多い日本で、多くの原発を抱えていくリスクは大きい。This grim reality was the starting point for the reform of the nuclear power policy prompted by the Fukushima accident.福島での事故を経て、そこが原子力行政見直しの出発点だったはずだ。If the government sticks to the policy of maintaining nuclear power generation, the burden on society, including the costs of disposing of nuclear waste, could increase over the long term. 原発を維持する政策をとり続ければ、廃棄物の処理などで長期的には国民負担も増えかねない。There is a clear global trend toward raising energy self-sufficiency through efforts to develop renewable energy sources.エネルギー自給率は再生エネルギーの育成で高めようというのが世界の大勢だ。A transition period may be necessary. But the only policy that makes sense is to shut down reactors steadily over a period of years. 移行期間は必要だとしても、着実に原発を閉じていく政策にこそ合理性があろう。The 40-year rule is one of the key principles of this policy. The government should remember this fact.４０年規制はそのための柱の一つである。そのことを思い起こすべきだ。
Apr 25, 2016
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自衛隊熊本支援 オスプレイの活用は効果的だ
The Yomiuri ShimbunOsprey aircraft prove valuable in earthquake relief operations自衛隊熊本支援 オスプレイの活用は効果的だThe Self-Defense Forces have mobilized more than 20,000 personnel to carry out rescue and relief operations for victims of the Kumamoto Earthquake. 熊本地震で、自衛隊が２万人以上を動員し、被災者の救助・支援活動を展開している。The operations are difficult, and rescuers face dangers from secondary disasters such as aftershocks and landslides caused by heavy rains. But we know they will make their utmost efforts as they engage in the operations. 余震や大雨による土砂崩れなど二次災害の危険が伴う困難な任務だが、全力で取り組んでもらいたい。The Defense Ministry has set up a joint task force of the Air, Ground and Maritime Self-Defense Forces. The task force is based at the GSDF’s Western Army Headquarters in Kumamoto. About 120 aircraft, mainly helicopters, and 10 transport and other vessels have been dispatched to the task force. 防衛省は、陸海空３自衛隊の統合部隊を編成した。熊本市の陸自西部方面総監部に司令部を置き、ヘリコプターなど約１２０機、輸送艦など約１０隻も派遣した。The SDF personnel engage in such activities as searching for missing people, transporting the sick and injured and providing meals and water. SDF personnel are transporting food and daily necessities directly to evacuation centers and other locations to cover the lack of manpower at local governments. 不明者の捜索や、患者の輸送、給食・給水などに従事している。食料や生活物資の輸送では、被災自治体の要員不足を補うため、避難所などへの直接搬送も担う。The SDF is a self-sustaining organization, providing its own food, clothing and shelter. Due to lessons learned from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, the SDF has enhanced telecommunication and other equipment and strengthened cooperation with local governments through disaster-response drills. 自衛隊は、衣食住を自力で賄える自己完結型組織だ。東日本大震災の教訓を踏まえ、通信機器などを充実させ、防災訓練を通じて自治体との連携も強化してきた。In the wake of the latest disaster, the SDF dispatched liaison personnel to relevant local governments, including the Kumamoto and Oita prefectural governments, and this action has facilitated the relief operation. To prevent duplication of efforts with local governments and police, proper sharing of tasks is crucial. 今回、熊本、大分両県など関係自治体に連絡調整要員を派遣したことで、支援活動を円滑にしている。自治体や警察などとの業務の重複を避けるためには、適切な役割分担が欠かせない。U.S. cooperation appreciatedWe would like to acknowledge the unreserved cooperation of U.S. forces, which follows Operation Tomodachi in the wake of the 2011 Tohoku disaster. 東日本大震災時の「トモダチ作戦」に続き、米軍が全面的に協力していることに感謝したい。Based on the Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation Guidelines — which were renewed in April last year — the SDF and the U.S. forces have set up a joint coordination center at the SDF’s task headquarters. The coordination center is now serving as the control tower of rescue operations. 昨年４月策定の新たな日米防衛協力指針（ガイドライン）に基づき、統合部隊司令部に設置された自衛隊と在日米軍の共同調整所が司令塔となっている。The U.S. forces dispatched four Osprey transport aircraft belonging to Futenma Air Station. The Ospreys shuttled back and forth to carry drinking water, food, blankets, portable toilets and other supplies to Kumamoto Prefecture’s Minami-Aso, a village isolated due to the collapse of a national highway, playing a very important role in sustaining the daily lives of many evacuees. 米軍は、普天間飛行場所属の輸送機オスプレイ４機を投入した。国道の崩落で孤立した熊本県南阿蘇村に飲料水・食料、毛布、簡易トイレなどをピストン輸送し、多くの被災者の生活を維持するうえで、重要な役割を果たした。Compared to conventional transport helicopters, the Osprey has great superiority in its maximum speed, payload and range. Also, it has been pointed out that the Osprey’s ability to operate in mountainous areas because of its ability to take off and land vertically makes it useful for disaster response. オスプレイは、従来の輸送ヘリより最大速度、搭載量、航続距離のいずれも大幅に優れている。垂直離着陸の機能を有し、山間部でも対応可能なため、かねて災害派遣に有効と指摘されていた。The opposition parties have criticized the use of Ospreys in relief operations — an act totally incomprehensible. Saying there are concerns over the safety of the aircraft, former Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Kazuhiro Haraguchi of the Democratic Party (Minshinto) said: “People who are taking refuge are worried. We thank the U.S. Forces for their cooperation, but we want them to stop.” 理解できないのは、野党内に、オスプレイ活用に批判があることだ。民進党の原口一博・元総務相は安全性に懸念があるとして「避難している皆さんも不安に思っている。米軍の協力はありがたいが、やめてほしい」と発言した。However, the risk of serious accidents involving the Osprey is lower than that of other U.S. military aircraft. It has a successful track record in relief operations after a typhoon in the Philippines and the recent earthquake in Nepal. If Ospreys had not been used for the latest earthquake, provision of supplies could have been stalled, creating greater anxiety for the disaster victims. だが、他の米軍機に比べても重大事故率は低く、フィリピンの大型台風やネパール地震で支援実績もある。活用しなければ、物資供給が滞り、被災者のより大きな不安を招いたのではないか。The Ground Self-Defense Force plans to introduce 17 Ospreys by fiscal 2018 to be based in Saga Airport. The conjecture that the use of Ospreys in the Kumamoto relief operation may have been an effort to smooth the way for the Saga deployment should be rejected. 陸自も２０１８年度までに、オスプレイ１７機を導入する予定で、佐賀空港への配備を目指す。その受け入れの地ならしではないかとの臆測も否定しておきたい。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 23, 2016)
Apr 24, 2016
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戦没者遺骨収集 遺族の思いを汲んで速やかに
The Yomiuri ShimbunAs families wait, expedite efforts to retrieve remains of war dead戦没者遺骨収集 遺族の思いを汲んで速やかにSeventy years have passed since World War II ended, and the families of Japan’s war dead are growing older. Efforts to find and retrieve remains of those who died in countries far from home must be accelerated. 終戦から７０年を経て、戦没者の遺族の高齢化が進む。異郷の地で死亡した戦没者の遺骨収集を急ぎたい。This month, a law to promote collection of the remains of the war dead came into force. The law’s main points are that it clearly positions retrieval of these remains as “the responsibility of the state,” and sets a nine-year period starting from this fiscal year as an intensive implemen-tation period for government efforts to find and repatriate remains. 戦没者遺骨収集推進法が今月、施行された。遺骨収集を「国の責務」と明確に位置づけ、今年度からの９年間を集中実施期間としたのが主眼だ。The law requires the government to collect remains systematically and effectively. The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry set aside ¥2.1 billion from this fiscal year’s budget to cover costs associated with this undertaking. 推進法は、計画的かつ効果的な収集を政府に求めている。厚生労働省は、収集事業費として今年度予算に２１億円を計上した。Returning remains to Japan has not progressed as well as hoped. Of 2.4 million Japanese who died on foreign battlefields or in Siberian internment camps after the war, the remains of 1.13 million still rest at sites overseas. In the past 10 years, the government has collected only 28,000 sets of remains. 遺骨の帰還は、思うように進んでいない。海外の戦地やシベリア抑留で死亡した２４０万人のうち、１１３万人の遺骨は、いまだに現地に残されたままだ。政府がこの１０年間で収集した遺骨は、２万８０００柱にとどまる。Many people are dissatisfied with the ministry’s efforts, saying they are “not well planned.” 厚労省の取り組みに対しては、「計画性を欠いている」といった不満も少なくない。The law was passed as legislation was proposed by lawmakers cooperating across party lines. We applaud the fact that the law promotes attempts to make up for the inadequacy revealed in efforts to date. We hope putting the law into effect will add momentum to the collection of remains. 推進法は超党派の議員立法で成立した。これまでの不十分だった点を補うよう促していることは評価できる。施行を収集に弾みをつける契機にしたい。Bumps in the roadAn especially important element of the law is the stipulation that greater efforts will be made to study documents stored at public records offices and other facilities overseas to collect information regarding where Japanese war dead are buried. It is clear that the conventional method of relying on the memories and other information provided by fellow soldiers has its limits. 推進法で特に重要なのは、埋葬地の情報を収集するため、海外の公文書館などで文献調査を進めるよう定めたことだ。戦友の記憶などに頼る従来の手法では、限界があるのは明らかだ。Spelling out that the health, labor and welfare minister will work closely with the foreign minister and other ministers to ensure smooth progress in negotiations with governments of nations where remains lie is also an appropriate measure. 現地政府との折衝を円滑に進めるため、厚労相が外相らと連携するよう規定したのも、妥当な措置だと言えよう。In 2011, it was revealed that remains collected in the Philippines by a nonprofit organization commissioned by the welfare ministry had been mixed with remains of people other than Japanese soldiers. 厚労省から委託を受けたＮＰＯ法人がフィリピンで収集した多数の遺骨の中に、旧日本兵以外のものが混じっていたことが、２０１１年に判明した。Reflecting on this, the new law says the government will designate a public corporation as a task force to handle collection of the remains. The new corporation is scheduled to be set up by people involved in groups for families of the war dead. The welfare ministry will establish an expert panel to check progress in these activities. この反省から、推進法には、収集にあたる公的法人を政府が指定し、実動部隊とすることも盛り込まれた。新法人は遺族団体の関係者らによって設立される予定だ。厚労省は、活動状況をチェックする有識者会議を設置する。The government will soon settle on a basic plan encompassing these specific policies, and will launch it this fiscal year. The new structure must function effectively. 政府は、これらの具体策を網羅した基本計画を近く策定し、今年度中に始動させる。新たな体制を有効に機能させねばならない。Many problems remain unaddressed. Because DNA examinations are essential for identifying remains, the government is working on a database of samples that can be tested. We hope a system in which these samples can be smoothly compared with DNA provided by relatives will quickly be put in place. 課題もある。遺骨の身元特定には、ＤＮＡ鑑定が不可欠なため、政府は、鑑定可能な検体のデータベース化を進める。遺族のＤＮＡとスムーズに照合できる仕組みの構築を急ぎたい。About 230,000 sets of remains still lie in China, where remains cannot be collected because anti-Japan sentiment has hampered this operation, and North Korea, a nation with which Japan does not have diplomatic relations. At present, there is no timeframe for when remains might be collected from these countries. 対日感情が障害となって収集ができない中国や、国交のない北朝鮮には、２３万柱が眠る。現時点で収集の見通しは立っていない。Families are ardently waiting for remains to be returned home. With their feelings in mind, we request that every possible effort be made to realize their wishes. 遺骨が手元に戻ることを待ち望む遺族の思いを汲くみ、可能な限りの取り組みを求めたい。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 22, 2016)
Apr 23, 2016
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新幹線脱線 地震対策の総点検を
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 21EDITORIAL: Kyushu quake exposes potential safety problem for Shinkansen（社説）新幹線脱線 地震対策の総点検をThe powerful earthquake in Kyushu has exposed a potential weakness of Japan’s reputed Shinkansen technology by disrupting operations of the Kyushu Shinkansen Line. 熊本地震は九州新幹線を直撃した。An out-of-service bullet train carrying no passengers derailed about 1.3 kilometers south of JR Kumamoto Station following the earthquake that rocked southern Japan on April 14.Kyushu Railway Co. (JR Kyushu) has also found damaged Shinkansen facilities at about 150 locations, including cracks in elevated bridges and fallen parts of noise-blocking walls.熊本市内で回送列車が脱線したほか、高架橋の亀裂や防音壁の落下といった損傷が約１５０カ所にのぼった。JR Kyushu on April 20 resumed operations on a section of the Shinkansen line between Shin-Minamata Station in Kumamoto Prefecture and Kagoshima-Chuo Station in Kagoshima Prefecture. But there is no telling when the company can restart operations on the remaining northern portion from Shin-Minamata Station to Hakata Station in Fukuoka.鹿児島中央―新水俣間はきのう運転を再開したが、博多までの全線が復旧するめどは立たない。This is the third derailment caused by an earthquake in the Shinkansen’s history of over half a century, following one in 2004 caused by the Niigata Chuetsu Earthquake and one in 2011 triggered by the Great East Japan Earthquake. 半世紀を超す新幹線の歴史で、地震による脱線は０４年の新潟県中越地震と１１年の東日本大震災に続いて３回目になる。The Kyushu Shinkansen train ran off the rails after the nighttime April 14 quake, which measured a maximum 7 on the Japanese intensity scale in Mashiki. 今回脱線したのは、最大震度７の地震が起きた１４日夜だ。The violent shaking derailed all six cars of the train, which was running at a speed of around 80 kph. Fortunately, no passengers were on the train, and the driver was not injured.時速８０キロ程度で走っていた列車が揺れに見舞われ、全６両が脱線した。幸い乗客はおらず、運転士にもけがはなかった。If the train were carrying passengers at a higher speed, however, it could have been a major disaster.もし高速で営業運転中だったら、大惨事になっていた恐れもある。Safety should be the absolute top priority for Shinkansen operations, which carry large number of passengers at very high speeds. 多数の乗客を高速で運ぶ新幹線の安全確保は、とりわけ重要だ。The derailment should prompt all JR companies offering Shinkansen services to make sweeping reviews of their bullet train systems and operations to secure greater safety.ＪＲ各社はこれを機に過去の対策を総点検し、いっそうの安全向上をめざすべきだ。Shinkansen lines are equipped with a system to detect preliminary tremors and stop the trains. However, as the Kumamoto accident shows, this system doesn’t work when earthquakes occur close to the lines. 新幹線には地震の初期微動を検知して列車を止めるシステムがある。しかし、今回のように震源が近い直下型地震では間に合わない。Since this problem was exposed by the Niigata Chuetsu Earthquake, JR companies have been taking steps to prevent quakes from causing derailments.その限界があらわになった中越地震の後、各社は地震で揺れても脱線を防ぐ装置の整備に力を注いできた。JR Kyushu has been working to install “derailment prevention guards” for 55 km of the Kyushu Shinkansen Line, or slightly over 10 percent of both the inbound and outbound bullet train lines. ＪＲ九州は、九州新幹線の上下線の１割超にあたる５５キロに「脱線防止ガード」を敷く計画を進めてきた。The guard is designed to prevent the wheels from veering off the track by sandwiching them with the rail. The company has already installed the guards on 48 km of the planned sections.ガードとレールで車輪を挟んで脱線を防ぐ仕組みで、４８キロは設置済みだ。The project covers sections in areas over active faults. But the accident site was not covered. 活断層があって激しい揺れが予想される区間を対象としているが、熊本の脱線現場は含まれていなかったという。JR companies have made their own decisions on which sections of their Shinkansen lines should be protected by anti-derailment guards. Their decisions are based on estimates of the risks of severe quakes. ガードをどの区間に整備するかは、地震の危険度を踏まえ、各社が独自に判断してきた。Central Japan Railway (JR Tokai) decided to install the guards for 596 km, or 60 percent, of the Tokaido Shinkansen Line. The company has already finished work for 360 km under the project. ＪＲ東海は東海道新幹線の６割の５９６キロで整備を計画し、うち３６０キロは工事を終えた。On the Sanyo Shinkansen Line, operated by West Japan Railway Co. (JR West), the protection guards had been installed on 110 km as of the end of last year. JR West plans to extend the protected sections by another 110 km.山陽新幹線では昨年末までに１１０キロのガードが敷かれ、ＪＲ西日本はあと１１０キロ延長する予定だ。East Japan Railway Co. and Hokkaido Railway Co. are installing different types of anti-derailment systems on their Shinkansen lines.ＪＲ東日本と北海道も、形式が異なる脱線防止装置の設置を進めている。The Kumamoto earthquake underscores the risk of a huge destructive force occurring at unexpected locations directly below urban areas. 熊本の地震は、思わぬ場所で起きる直下型地震の怖さを示した。The JR companies should seek opinions of experts to reassess the effectiveness of their current plans to protect their Shinkansen lines from such quakes.今の整備計画で大丈夫か。専門家の意見を聞くなど、いま一度確かめる必要がある。Derailment prevention systems are costly, requiring hundreds of millions of yen per kilometer. In addition, work to install such systems can only be done around midnight when the service is off.But the JR companies should try to figure out ways to implement their plans ahead of schedule. 脱線防止装置の設置には１キロあたり億単位の金がかかる。深夜しか工事ができない制約もあるが、できる限り整備を前倒しすることも検討してほしい。The 2011 earthquake damaged poles supporting overhead electric lines beside the tracks. 東日本大震災では線路脇の架線柱が損壊した。This time, a chimney of a plant located along the Shinkansen line fell and blocked the rails.今回も沿線の工場の煙突が倒れ、新幹線の線路をふさいだ。Giant quakes always create unexpected problems. All we can do is glean all possible lessons from each big quake and make steady efforts to enhance safety.大地震は常に新たな「想定外」を突き付けてくる。教訓を引き出し、安全網を着実に強めていくしかない。
Apr 22, 2016
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香山リカのココロの万華鏡 :差別は心を破壊する ／東京
April 17, 2016 (Mainichi Japan)Kaleidoscope of the Heart: Discrimination destroys the heart香山リカのココロの万華鏡 :差別は心を破壊する ／東京 Rika Kayama (Mainichi)Japan's ruling parties have submitted a bill to the current Diet session aiming to eliminate hate speech. On the Ministry of Justice's website, hate speech is defined as "discriminatory language and actions that reject the people of a particular ethnic group or nationality." Saying, "I don't like that person because they are mean," is simple badmouthing, but saying, "Get out of Japan, people of (such-and-such a country)" or, "The people of (such-and-such an ethnic group) are inferior" is hate speech. ヘイトスピーチの解消に向けた与党の法案が、今国会に提出された。法務省のホームページでは、ヘイトスピーチについて「特定の民族や国籍の人々を排斥する差別的言動」とある。「あの人は意地悪だからきらい」はただの悪口だが「○○国の人はみな日本から出て行け」とか「○○民族は劣っている」などはヘイトスピーチにあたる。Unfortunately, in recent years this kind of speech has been dispersed not only over the Internet, but on Japan's streets. 残念ながら近年、ネットだけでなく公道でこういったヘイトスピーチがばらまかれるようになった。 Hate speech is a problem around the world, but Japan has lagged in responding to the issue. The ruling parties are now rising up to legislate measures against hate speech, and I'm all for celebrating this. ヘイトスピーチは世界の各国で問題になっているが、日本では対策が遅れていた。それがこのほど与党も法制化に立ち上がったのだ。それは素直に喜びたい。 However, I still have worries. Under the ruling parties' bill, hate speech is considered "improper, discriminatory language and behavior that encourage the removal of people born in countries or territories outside Japan who are living lawfully." Of course language and actions falling under this definition are unforgivable, but hate speech in Japan is not only directed at "people born in countries or territories outside Japan." しかし、まだ心配が残っている。与党の法案ではこの法律の対象になるのは「日本以外の国または地域の出身者で適法に居住するものを、排除することを扇動する不当な差別的言動」ということになっている。これがヘイトスピーチの定義ということだ。もちろんこういった言動は許されない。ただ、国内のヘイトスピーチは「日本以外の国の出身者」にのみ向けられているわけではない。 For example, as someone from Hokkaido, I immediately think of the Ainu. The Ainu continue to be discriminated against in both employment and marriage, and it is not uncommon for them to be forced into an economically difficult lifestyle. Furthermore, lately there has been an increase in heartless comments directed at the Ainu, particularly online. There are even people who deny their existence, saying, "The Ainu people don't exist anymore." たとえば、北海道出身の私にとっては、アイヌのことがすぐ思い浮かぶ。アイヌはいまだに就職や結婚で差別され、経済的に苦しい生活を強いられていることも少なくない。しかも最近はネットを中心に、アイヌに対してさらに心ない差別的な言葉が投げかけられるようになった。「アイヌ民族なんてもういない」とその存在を否定する人までいる。Under the ruling parties' bill, the Ainu, who are Japan-born Japanese nationals, are not considered targets of hate speech. The bill is to be debated in the House of Councillors from here on, but I hope it can somehow be expanded to include "discrimination against any ethnic group or race." それが今回の与党案の定義では、日本生まれの日本人であるアイヌ民族はヘイトスピーチ対策の対象になっていないのだ。法案は参議院でこれから審議されるようだが、なんとか「あらゆる民族や人種への差別」と対象が広がらないだろうか。 Regardless, how can people say things like "get out" or "get lost" to their fellow humans in the first place? Why are the completely natural ideas that "discrimination is bad" and "everyone has human rights" no longer being followed? It's a shame that we must make a law to stop this, but since hate speech is actually being used widely, legal restrictions are unavoidable. それにしても、どうして自分と同じ人間に「出て行け」「消えろ」などと言うことができるのか。「差別はいけない」「誰にも人権がある」というごくあたりまえのことが、なぜ通用しない世の中になってしまったのか。それをやめさせるためにわざわざ法律を作らなければならない、というのも情けない話だが、実際にヘイトスピーチが蔓延（まんえん）しているからにはやむを得ないだろう。 I have also had a patient come to my consultation room who was emotionally hurt by seeing a rally involving hate speech. I want people to remember that discrimination destroys the heart. 診察室にも、ヘイトスピーチのデモを目撃して心に傷を負った人がやって来たことがある。差別は人の心を破壊する、ということを忘れないでほしい。(By Rika Kayama, psychiatrist) （精神科医）
Apr 21, 2016
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産油国会合不調 価格安定へ増産凍結を急げ
The Yomiuri ShimbunExpedite freeze on oil production levels to stabilize crude prices産油国会合不調 価格安定へ増産凍結を急げOil ministers of major oil-producing countries, including Saudi Arabia and Russia, at a meeting on Sunday put off reaching an agreement on freezing oil output levels. サウジアラビアやロシアなど、主要産油国による石油相会合が、増産凍結の合意を見送った。In a bid to stem the decline in crude oil prices, they had aimed to freeze oil output at January levels. As Saudi Arabia was angered by the absence of Iran, which has indicated it would increase production, the ministers put off reaching an accord. 原油価格の下落に歯止めをかけようと、生産量を今年１月の水準で据え置くことを目指していた。だが、増産方針を示しているイランの欠席にサウジが反発したため、結論が先送りされた。They are said to continue negotiating intermittently until the next meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries scheduled in June. ６月に予定される石油輸出国機構（ＯＰＥＣ）総会まで、断続的に協議を続けるとしている。Slumping crude oil prices not only have an adverse impact on the economies of oil-producing countries but also are risk factors for oil-consuming countries and the rest of the world. 原油価格の低迷は、産油国経済に悪影響を及ぼすだけでなく、消費国を含む世界全体のリスク要因となっている。When combined, the crude oil output of the 18 countries that participated in the meeting accounts for half the world’s production. Major oil-producing countries must expedite their efforts in building a consensus on specific measures to stabilize oil prices, including freezing production levels. 会合に参加した１８か国の原油生産量は、世界の半分を占める。主要産油国は、増産凍結を含む価格安定の具体策について、合意形成を急がねばならない。Following the failure by oil-rich countries to agree to freeze production levels, crude oil futures, which had been traded in the lower half of the $40 range per barrel on the U.S. market, fell further to the upper half of the $30 range. 増産凍結の見送りを受け、１バレル＝４０ドル台前半で推移していた米国の原油先物相場は、３０ドル台後半に下落した。Fearing that further declines in crude prices may cause turmoil in financial markets, investors have taken a risk-avoidance stance, causing the yen to strengthen and stock prices to decline on the Tokyo market. 一段の原油安が金融市場の波乱要因になりかねないとして、投資家がリスク回避姿勢を強め、東京市場では円高・株安が進んだ。For Japan, an oil-consuming country, a decline in crude oil prices would usually have a positive effect, but at the current time, the situation is different. We must not underestimate the possible negative impact on the Japanese economy when the pace of its economic recovery has been sluggish. 石油消費国の日本にとって、原油安は本来、プラスになるが、今の局面は状況が異なる。景気回復がもたつく中、日本経済に及ぼす負の影響は軽視できない。Saudi-Iran rivalryOil-producing countries with tight fiscal situations may accelerate their moves to pull their oil money out of financial markets, causing stocks to plunge around the world. Such doubts and fears show signs of spreading. Strict observation of market trends in the days ahead is needed. 財政が逼迫ひっぱくした産油国が、オイルマネーを市場から引き揚げる動きを加速させ、世界的な株安を招くのではないか。そうした疑心暗鬼が広がりつつある。今後の市場動向に注意が必要だ。Behind the failure of oil-producing countries to reach an accord is a tug-of-war for hegemony in the Middle East between Saudi Arabia, which refers to itself as the leader of Sunni Muslim nations, and Iran, a major Shiite-dominated country. 産油国が合意できなかった背景には、イスラム教スンニ派の盟主を自任するサウジと、シーア派大国のイランが繰り広げる中東の覇権争いがある。Their confrontation has intensified as the two countries severed diplomatic ties in January following Saudi Arabia’s execution of a prominent Shiite cleric. サウジがシーア派の宗教指導者を処刑したことを契機に、両国が今年１月に国交を断絶するなど、対立は激化している。Saudi Arabia is strongly resistant to any agreement that would favor its rival Iran. Meanwhile, Iran can hardly go along with freezing output levels as the country has just begun increasing its production following the lifting in January of economic sanctions imposed by the United States and European countries over Tehran’s nuclear development. サウジには、敵対するイランを利する内容での決着への抵抗感が強い。イランは、核開発を巡る米欧の経済制裁を１月に解除されて増産に踏み出したばかりで、凍結には乗りにくい。It will not be easy to untangle the complex factors that are blocking an accord on freezing oil output. The roles Russia and the United States play are important as they are major oil-producing countries outside the Middle East. 合意を阻む複雑な要因を解きほぐすのは容易ではない。中東以外の産油国であるロシアと米国の役割は重要である。Due to falling crude prices, Russia is suffering from negative economic growth as the country has been hit by the ruble’s sharp decline and high inflation. Meanwhile, the United States has seen the profit margins of its shale oil wells fall. While taking heed of the impacts on their own economies, Russia and the United States should press Saudi Arabia and Iran to reach some kind of compromise. 原油安で、ロシアは通貨ルーブルの急落とインフレに見舞われ、マイナス成長に陥っている。米国も、シェールオイル油田の採算が悪化している。自国経済への影響にも留意して、サウジとイランに歩み寄りを促すべきだ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 19, 2016)
Apr 20, 2016
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Ｇ２０と世界経済 政策協調の実効性が問われる
The Yomiuri ShimbunTo stabilize global economy, G-20 needs to strengthen coordinationＧ２０と世界経済 政策協調の実効性が問われるEach country is being tested in its efforts to strengthen coordination in implementing the crucial policies needed to stabilize the global economy. 世界経済の安定へ各国に問われるのは、必要な政策の実行に向け、協調をより強める努力だ。The Group of 20 finance ministers and central bank governors reiterated during a recent meeting their determination to employ all policy tools, such as fiscal and monetary policies, as well as structural reforms. 主要２０か国・地域（Ｇ２０）財務相・中央銀行総裁会議が、財政・金融政策や構造改革などの政策手段を総動員する決意を改めて示した。Expressing concern over the prospects of the world economy, a communique said, “However, growth remains modest and uneven, and downside risks and uncertainties to the global outlook persist ...” 共同声明は「成長は緩やかでばらつきがあり、下方リスクや不確実性が残っている」として、世界経済の行方に懸念を表明した。While the financial market is becoming calmer, the G-20 reaffirmed the importance of coordination without relaxing its vigilance. We believe this is appropriate. 金融市場は落ち着きを取り戻しつつあるが、Ｇ２０が危機感を緩めず、協調の重要性を再確認したことは評価できる。However, the G-20 is not a monolith, as the situations in each country differ. ただ、各国それぞれの事情があり、Ｇ２０は一枚岩ではない。While the United States pointed out the effectiveness of an agile fiscal policy, Germany remained cautious on this stance. 米国が機動的な財政政策の有効性を指摘したのに対し、ドイツは慎重な姿勢を崩さなかった。Deflationary concerns are growing over the European economy. To prop it up, it may be effective for countries with fiscal leeway to start expanding their expenditures. 欧州経済は、デフレ懸念を強めている。景気テコ入れには、財政余力のある国が歳出拡大に踏み出すことも有力な手段となろう。The communique also expressed the intention of avoiding competitive currency devaluation. “We reiterate that excess volatility and disorderly movements in exchange rates can have adverse implications for economic and financial stability,” it says. A similar phrase was used in the previous meeting. 声明は、通貨の切り下げ競争を回避する意向も盛り込んだ。その上で、「為替相場の過度な変動や無秩序な動きは経済・金融に悪影響を与えうる」という、前回会合と同様の表現を明記した。Overcoming differences keyJapan deems that the legitimacy of a new dimension of monetary easing has been acknowledged, and its market intervention to deal with the rapid rise in the yen has won understanding. 日本は、異次元の金融緩和の正当性が認められ、急激な円高に市場介入などで対応することにも理解が得られたと解釈している。Because of a possible slowdown in the pace of additional interest rate increases in the United States, there is concern that the yen may rise further in the future. At a press conference after the G-20 financial leaders meeting, Finance Minister Taro Aso stressed, “Taking necessary action against exchange rate movements is in line with the G-20 agreement.” 米国の追加利上げペースの鈍化をにらみ、今後、円高がさらに進む心配がある。Ｇ２０後の記者会見で、麻生財務相は「為替の動きに必要な対応をとることは、Ｇ２０の合意内容に沿う」と強調した。U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew, however, attempted to curb Japan’s moves to guide the yen’s value lower, saying, “Despite recent yen appreciation, foreign exchange markets remain orderly.” This is because Lew is wary that the yen’s slide against the dollar could lead to a drop in U.S. exports and worsening employment. だが、ルー米財務長官は、「最近は円高が進んでいるが、市場の秩序は保たれている」と、日本が円安誘導に動くことを牽制けんせいした。円安・ドル高が国内製造業の輸出不振や雇用悪化などを招くことを警戒しているためだ。Unless developed countries strengthen their coordination by overcoming differences in their intentions, market stabilization will be far from certain. 先進各国が、思惑の違いを乗り越えて協調を強めなければ、市場の安定はおぼつかない。The G-20 also hammered out a policy of strengthening measures to stop excessive tax saving. This is based on the fact that the Panama Papers, which exposed a situation in which money is being salted away in tax havens, has become a global issue. Ｇ２０は、行き過ぎた節税への歯止め策を強化する方針も打ち出した。タックスヘイブン（租税回避地）を使った節税の実態を暴露した「パナマ文書」の流出が、国際問題化したことを踏まえた。One cannot ignore that companies and wealthy people possessing huge assets pay too little tax, although this is not a clearly illegal act. The G-20’s direction of building an international cooperation framework to close tax loopholes is appropriate. 明確な違法行為でなくとも、巨額の資産を持つ企業や富裕層が、過少な税金しか納めない事態は放置できない。課税の抜け道を塞ぐ国際協力体制を構築しようとするＧ２０の方向性は適切である。It is hoped the G-20 will closely exchange information and strive to craft more effective rules to also deal swiftly with new methods of avoiding taxes. 新手の税逃れ方法に迅速に対処するためにも、緊密な情報交換と、より効果的なルール作りに努めていくことが期待されよう。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 18, 2016)
Apr 19, 2016
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日露外相会談 首脳往来の環境を整備したい
The Yomiuri ShimbunPrepare environment to promote mutual visits between Abe, Putin日露外相会談 首脳往来の環境を整備したいContinuing high-level talks with Russia is essential in order to make progress on the issue of the northern territories. Persistent effort is the key. 北方領土問題の進展には、ロシアと高いレベルの対話を粘り強く続けることが欠かせない。Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida met with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, in Tokyo on Friday. The two agreed to prepare for a summit meeting in Russia’s southern city of Sochi in early May. 岸田外相が、来日したロシアのラブロフ外相と会談し、５月上旬にロシア南部ソチで日露首脳会談を行う方向で準備を進めることで一致した。At a joint press conference, Kishida referred to the issue of the northern territories, saying: “We had a positive discussion aimed at formulating a solution acceptable to both sides, which I believe will bring momentum to the negotiations.” 岸田氏は共同記者会見で、北方領土問題について「双方に受け入れ可能な解決策を作成すべく、交渉に弾みを与える前向きな議論が行えた」と強調した。Lavrov responded by saying that Moscow is ready to continue dialogue with Tokyo. Compared with the stubborn attitude he showed after his September meeting with Kishida — Lavrov at that time unilaterally denied that they had even discussed the northern territories at the meeting — we can say that the Russian minister was more flexible this time. ラブロフ氏は「対話を継続する用意がある」と応じた。昨年９月の外相会談後、領土問題を議題としたことさえ一方的に否定した硬直的な態度と比べれば、柔軟姿勢を示したと言えよう。The atmosphere surrounding the diplomacy between Tokyo and Moscow is not bad. Since autumn, the two countries have held repeated exchanges between lawmakers as well as talks between senior government officials. 昨年秋以降は、議員交流や高官協議が続いており、日露外交の雰囲気自体は悪くない。Russian President Vladimir Putin embraced Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s envisaged visit to Sochi. He told reporters that Japan is making efforts to maintain its relationship with Russia “despite U.S.-centered pressure.” Putin added that the two countries will be able to find middle ground on the territorial issue someday. プーチン大統領も、「米国を中心とする圧力にもかかわらず、日本は（対露）関係を維持しようとしている」と記者団に述べ、安倍首相のソチ訪問を歓迎した。領土問題についても、「いつか妥協できる」と語っている。Strong willpower neededOf course, it is too early to say that Moscow has shifted to a softer approach on territorial issues. 無論、ロシアが領土問題で軟化していると見るのは早計だ。In an interview with certain media ahead of his visit to Japan, Lavrov said the 1956 Japan-Soviet Joint Declaration does not say that the territorial dispute will be discussed during negotiations on the envisioned peace treaty. ラブロフ氏は来日前、一部メディアに対し、１９５６年の日ソ共同宣言について「平和条約交渉で領土問題を検討するとは書かれていない」などと主張した。The remarks contradict past agreements between Japan and Russia, such as the 2001 Irkutsk Statement, which states that settling the territorial jurisdiction of the four islands off Hokkaido is a precondition to concluding a peace treaty. Lavrov’s remarks cannot be accepted. Moscow should remember that Putin himself signed the Irkutsk Statement. ４島の帰属問題の解決が条約締結の前提とした２００１年のイルクーツク声明など、過去の合意に反しており、容認できない発言だ。声明はプーチン氏自身が署名したことも踏まえるべきである。Abe and Putin will have to have strong willpower and be decisive in resolving the territorial dispute. 領土問題の解決には、両首脳の強い意志と決断が求められる。The tenure of both leaders ends in 2018. We urge both governments to materialize the Russian president’s visit to Japan after Abe’s trip to Russia. It is important to seek a path toward reaching an agreement on the issue by exchanging mutual visits. We urge the government to steadily and strategically prepare the way for fostering the needed environment. ２人の任期はいずれも１８年までだ。安倍首相の訪露後、プーチン氏の来日を実現し、相互往来を重ねる中で、合意の糸口を探ることが重要である。その環境整備を着実かつ戦略的に進めたい。At the same time, it is important not to disrupt the unity of the Group of Seven developed nations. 留意すべきは先進７か国（Ｇ７）の足並みを乱さないことだ。U.S. President Barack Obama has confronted Putin over the Ukranian conflict. Obama expressed concern over Abe’s envisaged Sochi visit during a telephone discussion in February, asking him to postpone it. Abe countered: “A peace treaty issue with Russia is also important. We must continue dialogue with Russia.” ウクライナ情勢を巡ってロシアと対立するオバマ米大統領は、２月の首相との電話会談で、首相の訪露に懸念を伝え、延期を求めた。首相は「ロシアとの平和条約も大事だ。ロシアとの対話を続けねばならない」と反論した。Earlier this month, Abe held a meeting with Ukranian President Petro Poroshenko, pledging to continue financial support to the country. 首相は今月上旬、ウクライナのポロシェンコ大統領と会談し、経済支援の継続を約束した。It is essential for the government to explain Japan’s standpoint of simultaneously working on the two issues — easing the Ukranian conflict and making progress in Japan-Russia relations — to the United States and European countries to obtain their understanding before Japan hosts the G-7 Ise-Shima Summit meeting in May. ５月に主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）を控え、ウクライナ情勢の改善と日露関係の進展の両立を目指す日本の立場を説明し、米欧の理解を得る必要がある。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 17, 2016)
Apr 18, 2016
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北ミサイル失敗 核搭載の脅威に警戒を怠るな
The Yomiuri ShimbunStay alert to N. Korea’s attempts to miniaturize nuclear warheads北ミサイル失敗 核搭載の脅威に警戒を怠るなThe self-serving stance of the North Korean regime led by Kim Jong Un, which has continued to make dangerous provocations in total defiance of international criticism, has become more pronounced. 国際社会の非難を一顧だにせず、危険な挑発を続ける北朝鮮の金正恩政権の独善ぶりが一段と鮮明になった。North Korea launched a missile from an area on its coast facing the Sea of Japan, but it failed. It is highly possible that it was a test-firing of a new type of medium-range ballistic missile named Musudan. There is information that the missile exploded as it rose skyward. 北朝鮮は日本海側地域からミサイルを発射したが、失敗した。新型中距離弾道ミサイル「ムスダン」の初の発射実験だった可能性が大きい。上昇中に爆発したとの情報もある。If the precision of North Korea’s launching technology improves through repeated test-firings, it would enhance its surprise attack capabilities because such missiles are fired from mobile launch pads that are difficult to detect. Countries concerned must not neglect the need to stay alert regarding the progress of North Korea’s military technology. 発射を重ねることで精度が高まれば、事前の兆候をつかみにくい移動式だけに、奇襲能力の向上につながりかねない。関係国は北朝鮮の軍事技術開発の進展に対する警戒を怠ってはなるまい。Resolutions on sanctions that have been repeatedly adopted by the U.N. Security Council against North Korea ban any type of launch using ballistic missile technology. It cannot be overlooked that North Korea has repeatedly violated the resolutions since it conducted a nuclear test in January. 国連安全保障理事会の度重なる制裁決議は北朝鮮に対し、弾道ミサイル技術を用いた、いかなる発射も禁じている。北朝鮮が１月の核実験以降、決議違反を繰り返していることは、看過できない。Kim claimed in early March that his country had succeeded in miniaturizing nuclear warheads. He is apparently trying to rattle the three countries of Japan, the United States and South Korea by flaunting technology for missiles on which nuclear warheads can be mounted. 金第１書記は３月上旬、核弾頭の小型化に成功したと主張した。運搬手段となるミサイル技術を誇示して、日米韓３か国を揺さぶろうとする思惑ではないか。North Korea in mid-March defiantly launched a Nodong medium-range ballistic missile capable of reaching most parts of Japan. 北朝鮮は３月中旬には、日本の大半を射程に収める移動式の中距離弾道ミサイル「ノドン」の発射を強行していた。With a longer range than the Nodong type, it is estimated that the Musudan missile has a range of up to 4,000 kilometers. ムスダンは、ノドンより射程が長く、最大４０００キロに達すると推定される。Realistic threats loomIf the missile test-fired this time was a Musudan type, North Korea’s purpose is to be able to target U.S. forces in Japan and Guam. B-52 strategic bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons are deployed at the U.S. military base in Guam. The U.S. military dispatched a B-52 from the Guam base to fly over South Korea after North Korea conducted a nuclear test in January. 今回発射したミサイルがムスダンとすれば、在日米軍やグアムの米軍も標的として想定したものだ。グアムには核兵器を搭載できるＢ５２戦略爆撃機が配備されている。北朝鮮の核実験後、米軍はＢ５２を韓国上空まで飛行させた。Should Pyongyang successfully test-fire a Musudan missile, the threat that it can launch nuclear attacks on U.S. bases in the Asia-Pacific region would become reality. 北朝鮮がムスダンの発射に成功した場合は、「アジア太平洋の米軍基地」を核攻撃できるという威嚇が現実味を帯びよう。The latest missile launch by North Korea was conducted on Friday, the birthday of Kim Jong Un’s grandfather Kim Il Sung — an important, commemorative day for the country. North Korea’s expectations of enhancing national prestige could not be met due to the failed test-firing. 今回、ミサイルを発射した１５日は、金第１書記の祖父、金日成主席の誕生日に当たり、重要な祝日だ。失敗により、国威発揚の目論見は外れたのではないか。The Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea is scheduled to convene in early May for the first time in 36 years. Preparations are in full swing, including holding meetings to select delegates to the congress. Rodong Sinmun, an organ of the WPK, praised Kim Jong Un, saying he has lifted North Korea to the first rank of nuclear powers. ５月上旬には３６年ぶりの朝鮮労働党大会が予定される。大会代表を選ぶ会議が開かれるなど、準備は本格化している。党機関紙「労働新聞」は、金第１書記について、「祖国を核強国の前列に引き上げた」などと称たたえている。It is assumed Kim Jong Un will resort to further military provocations in an attempt to enhance his own prestige. It was natural for Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga to say that Japan “will gather and analyze information and respond, while acting in concert firmly with the United States and South Korea.” 金第１書記は自らの威信を高めるため、さらなる軍事挑発に走ることが想定される。菅官房長官が「米韓ともしっかり連携をしながら、情報を収集、分析し、対応していく」と語ったのは当然だ。To prepare for new North Korean provocations, such as a fifth nuclear test and an additional missile test-firing, it is essential that Japan strengthen surveillance in close cooperation with Washington and Seoul. ５回目の核実験や新たなミサイル発射などに備えて、日本は米韓と緊密に協調し、監視を強めることが欠かせない。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 16, 2016)
Apr 17, 2016
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韓国与党敗北 対「北」連携へ悪影響避けたい
The Yomiuri ShimbunDefeat of South Korean ruling party musn’t derail cooperation over North韓国与党敗北 対「北」連携へ悪影響避けたいThe political base of South Korean President Park Geun-hye, who has one year and 10 months left in her term, has been shaken to its core. 残り任期が１年１０か月となった朴槿恵韓国大統領の政権基盤が、大きく揺らいだと言えよう。This is a development that raises concerns about the possible negative impact on South Korea’s policies toward North Korea and Tokyo-Seoul ties. 北朝鮮政策や日韓関係に悪影響が及ばないか、懸念される事態だ。In South Korea’s parliamentary election, the ruling conservative Saenuri Party suffered a devastating defeat and lost its majority in the National Assembly. The main opposition Minjoo Party of Korea, a left-leaning party that favors a conciliatory stance toward North Korea, made significant gains and is now the largest party in the assembly. The People’s Party, a new party, also picked up many seats. 韓国の総選挙で、政権与党である保守系のセヌリ党が過半数を割り込み、惨敗した。左派で北朝鮮に融和的な最大野党「共に民主党」が伸長して第１党となり、新政党「国民の党」も躍進した。A South Korean president serves one five-year term and cannot be reelected. When an administration enters the latter half of its term, it normally becomes a lame duck. A further decline in its unifying force is unavoidable. ５年１期で再選がない韓国大統領の政権後期は通常、レームダック（死に体）化する。求心力の一層の低下は避けられまい。The direct cause of the ruling party’s defeat was an internal conflict prior to the election that caused many people to lose trust in the party. Discord between lawmakers close to Park and lawmakers in an anti-Park group who want to keep their distance from her resulted in a split election, as some anti-Park lawmakers who were denied official nominations ran as independents. 与党の直接の敗因は、選挙直前に内紛を起こし、国民の信頼を失ったことだ。朴氏に近い「親朴派」と、距離を置く「非朴派」が対立した末、公認を拒まれた一部の「非朴派」議員が無所属で出馬する分裂選挙となった。The Park administration’s failure to produce any notable results on the economic front also affected the election. Due to the economic slowdown in China and other factors, South Korea’s exports have fallen and growth has been tepid. The rising unemployment rate, especially among young people, has become a social problem. 朴政権が経済面でめぼしい成果を上げていないことも響いた。中国経済の減速などにより、輸出が落ち込み、成長が鈍化した。特に若年層の失業率上昇が大きな社会問題になっている。Park will have to increasingly request opposition parties’ cooperation to pass bills seeking to reenergize the economy, and on other issues. Running her administration will become more difficult. 朴氏は経済活性化を目指す法案の成立などで、野党の協力を要請する場面が増え、困難な政権運営を迫られるだろう。Stick to ‘comfort women’ dealPark has an obligation to deal with North Korea’s repeated provocations, such as its nuclear tests and launches of long-range ballistic missiles. 核実験や長距離弾道ミサイル発射などの挑発を繰り返す北朝鮮への対処は、朴氏の責務である。South Korea has quite appropriately adopted a hard-line approach to North Korea, such as by slapping its own sanctions on Pyongyang in addition to those imposed by the United Nations. Halting operations at the Kaesong industrial complex will be effective in severing a source of funds for the administration of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Criticism from opposition parties that these steps are excessive is unfair. 韓国が、国連の制裁に加え独自制裁を科すなど北朝鮮に厳しく臨んでいるのは妥当だ。開城工業団地の操業停止は金正恩政権の資金源を断つ効果がある。行き過ぎだとの野党の批判は当たらない。To prevent North Korea from committing any reckless acts, it is essential for Seoul to strengthen its alliance with Washington and continue to discuss the deployment of a sophisticated U.S. missile defense system in South Korea. 北朝鮮の暴発を防ぐには、米最新鋭ミサイル防衛システムの韓国配備の協議を続け、米国との同盟を強化することが肝要だ。Some observers have suggested the opposition party’s victory will make it harder to conclude a General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) that is being discussed by Japan and South Korea. However, the importance of cooperation between Japan, the United States and South Korea must not be forgotten. 日韓間の懸案である軍事情報包括保護協定（ＧＳＯＭＩＡ）の締結は、野党の勝利で難しくなったとの見方があるが、日米韓の協調の重要性を忘れてはならない。What will happen to efforts aimed at implementing the Japan-South Korea deal on so-called comfort women, which was realized at the end of last year, is a cause for concern. 気がかりなのは、慰安婦問題を巡る昨年末の日韓合意の履行に向けた取り組みである。South Korea is obliged to establish a foundation that will provide support to former comfort women. South Korea has also promised to make efforts to remove a statue of a girl symbolizing comfort women set up in front of the Japanese Embassy in Seoul. Japan has demanded that this statue be removed. 韓国は今後、元慰安婦を支援する財団を設立せねばならない。日本が求める在ソウル日本大使館前の少女像の撤去についても、解決の努力を約束している。Deep-rooted opposition to this deal remains in South Korea. Although the comfort women issue did not become a major point of contention in the election, the Minjoo Party of Korea called in its campaign promises for the withdrawal and renegotiation of the deal. 韓国内では、日韓合意に反対の声が根強い。慰安婦問題は総選挙の争点にならなかったが、「共に民主党」は選挙公約で、日韓合意の撤回と再交渉を求めていた。We will watch carefully and hope Park will not be swayed by such pressure, and that she implements the deal to improve Japan-South Korea relations. 朴氏がこうした圧力に左右されず、日韓関係改善のために合意を履行することを見守りたい。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 15, 2016)
Apr 16, 2016
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パナマ文書 中国政権の正統性問う
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 10EDITORIAL: Panama Papers question China leadership’s legitimacy（社説）パナマ文書 中国政権の正統性問う After three years of persistently pursuing a rigorous anti-corruption campaign, the administration of Chinese President Xi Jinping is now facing a serious credibility crisis.The administration’s drive to clean up the rot within the government and the Communist Party has won public support because the unusually tough crackdown has led to a slew of arrests and indictments of political heavyweights. Many party bigwigs are still under investigation. 中国の習近平（シーチンピン）政権は発足から３年、一貫して「反腐敗」を掲げている。大物の摘発を辞さず、従来とは違う強い姿勢で臨んできたことが支持された。いまも連日、共産党幹部が取り調べを受けている。But the so-called Panama Papers, or millions of internal documents about hidden wealth leaked from a Panama-based law firm, have implicated some members of China’s most powerful policy body.The names mentioned in the leaked documents include the husband of Xi’s elder sister and relatives of Liu Yunshan and Zhang Gaoli, two other members of the Communist Party Politburo Standing Committee. They were shareholders in companies registered in overseas tax havens, according to information obtained and made public by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. ところが、国際調査報道ジャーナリスト連合（ＩＣＩＪ）が入手した「パナマ文書」によれば、習国家主席の姉の夫のほか、共産党政治局常務委員である劉雲山（リウユンシャン）、張高麗（チャンカオリー）両氏の親族が、租税回避地に設立した会社の株主となっていた。The disclosures raised suspicions that the leaders who have been acting as champions of the anti-corruption crusade are corrupt themselves. The leaked documents have cast serious doubt on the administration’s credibility and moral rectitude. 反腐敗の旗振り役も腐敗しているのではないか。政権のあり方に疑問を突き付けている。The Panama Papers also cite five relatives of former Chinese leaders including the husband of Mao Tse-tung’s granddaughter. ほかにも毛沢東の孫の夫を含め、元指導者の親族５人の名前が挙がっている。Chinese authorities have imposed a strict media blackout to block public access to information concerning the Panama Papers. 中国当局はパナマ文書に関する情報にアクセスできないよう統制を敷いた。The Chinese Foreign Ministry has refused to comment on any of the many questions about the topic posed by foreign media.外務省は国外メディアの再三の問いかけにもノーコメントだ。But the government has been unable to stop the embarrassing facts about top leaders from becoming known widely among the people.それでも多くの市民に知れ渡るのは止められない。The phrase “husband of an elder sister” has already become fashionable on the Internet.早くも「姉の夫」がネット上で流行語となった。We have heard a raft of stories about how relatives of Chinese leaders have taken advantage of their positions to win the rights to use state-owned land and made huge profits through real estate investments. 指導者の親族が地位を利用して国有地の使用権を得たうえ、不動産投資で金もうけをしている――といった話は中国でよく耳にする。It is unclear whether reported secretive offshore financing is related to such dubious wealth accumulated through abuse of political privileges.今回の事例が、そうした特権的手段による蓄財と関連するのかどうかは、まだ明確には分からない。But two things are clear. だが、言えることが二つある。One is that people around China’s top leader have amassed amounts of wealth well beyond the imagination of ordinary citizens in the country. 一つは、最高指導者の周辺で、市民感覚とかけ離れた巨大な富が蓄えられているという現実だ。The other is that they have taken the trouble to set up companies in remote offshore tax havens. もう一つは、彼らが遠く海外の租税回避地にわざわざ会社を設立していたということだ。Why have they transferred their assets to such companies far away from home? The only plausible explanation is that they were trying to hide their money from Chinese authorities’ oversight.この仕組みを使って資産を移しているのはなぜか。中国当局の目が届かないところに隠そうとする意図があったとしか考えられない。These leaders deserve to be criticized for putting a higher priority on protecting the profits of their kin than on promoting the nation’s development. That’s at least how Chinese citizens will think about the revelations. 国を指導する立場にありながら、国の発展よりも一族の利益を守ることを優先している、とみられても仕方がないだろう。少なくとも市民はそう受け止める。At least three of the seven members of the paramount leadership organ have been implicated.そのような最高指導部メンバーが現職７人のうち３人もいたのである。China lacks a system under which its leaders are chosen through free and fair elections. 中国は、自由で公正な選挙によって指導者が選ばれる制度を欠いている。If the Communist Party government is to win public support for its rule of the nation, it must ensure that the living standards among the people will keep rising.それでも今の共産党政権が国民の支持を得るとすれば、人々の生活水準を向上させることによるほかない。If the party’s leaders are working hard to make themselves far richer than citizens, however, the very foundation of the legitimacy of the party’s monopoly on power could be seriously undermined. だが、党指導部がそれをはるかに上回る私利を図っているとすれば、共産党支配の正統性は根本から揺らぎかねない。The documents that tell sordid stories about relatives of top Chinese leaders are widely available across the world. It is hard to imagine how the Xi administration will be able to get away with this scandal without offering convincing explanations. 証拠となる文書は全世界にさらされている。このまま説明なしに済むとは思えない。
Apr 15, 2016
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ＴＢＳ批判 まっとうな言論活動か
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 13EDITORIAL: Attack on TBS TV an act of crude intimidation, not free speech（社説）ＴＢＳ批判 まっとうな言論活動か Tokyo Broadcasting System Holdings Inc., operator of the TBS TV station, issued a statement earlier this month concerning an organization that has publicly declared its intention to put pressure on the broadcaster’s sponsors. ＴＢＳテレビが先週、「弊社スポンサーへの圧力を公言した団体の声明について」と題するコメントを発表した。Calling itself “an association of television viewers demanding compliance with the Broadcast Law,” the group maintains that TBS’s news reports violate the Broadcast Law, and says it is preparing a “national campaign to alert sponsors.” この団体は、「放送法遵守（じゅんしゅ）を求める視聴者の会」というグループだ。ＴＢＳの報道が放送法に反すると主張し、スポンサーへの「国民的な注意喚起運動」を準備するとしている。In its statement, TBS rebutted: “Fully cognizant of our mission as a news organization to introduce diverse opinions and keep public authorities in check, we autonomously aim for fair and impartial programming.” ＴＢＳのコメントは、次のような要旨を表明している。 「多様な意見を紹介し、権力をチェックするという報道機関の使命を認識し、自律的に公平・公正な番組作りをしている」The broadcaster stressed, “The (group’s) open declaration of its intent to apply pressure on our sponsors represents a grave threat to freedom of expression and, ultimately, to democracy itself.” 「スポンサーに圧力をかけるなどと公言していることは、表現の自由、ひいては民主主義に対する重大な挑戦である」The purpose of the Broadcast Law is to guarantee freedom of expression and encourage the healthy development of democracy. TBS’s comment is fully compatible with the spirit of this law, and we support it. 放送法の目的は、表現の自由を確保し、健全な民主主義の発達に役立てることにある。コメントは、その趣旨にもかなった妥当な見解である。The viewers’ association has been attacking TBS since last autumn, and it kept track of the airtime the network gave to its coverage of the controversial national security legislation.After establishing that TBS gave more airtime to reports that were critical of the legislation, the association accused TBS of failing to maintain political neutrality. 声明を出した団体は、昨秋からＴＢＳ批判を続けている。安保関連法制の報道時間を独自に計り、法制への反対部分が長かったとして政治的公平性を欠くと主張している。But it is the mission of any news organization to examine legislation pushed by the administration of the time, and raise questions and discuss problems. And with something like national security legislation that was of great interest to the public, the network obviously needed to thoroughly report on the issue by airing diverse opinions that differed from the administration’s, including critical views. しかし、政権が進める法制を検証し、疑問や問題点を指摘するのは報道機関の使命だ。とりわけ安保法のように国民の関心が強い問題について、政権の主張と異なる様々な意見や批判を丁寧に報じるのは当然だ。As for the matter of putting pressure on broadcasters, a ruling Liberal Democratic Party legislator held a study meeting in June last year, in which a comment was made to the effect, “The most effective way to punish mass media is to cut off revenues from their sponsors.” テレビ局への圧力という問題をめぐっては、昨年６月、自民党議員の勉強会で「マスコミを懲らしめるには広告料収入がなくなるのが一番」などとの発言があった。Such thinking fully endorses browbeating by political authorities. This is simply unacceptable.政治権力による威圧であり、論外の発想だ。On the other hand, viewers are free to criticize TV programs, and broadcasters must humbly heed such complaints. However, what the viewers’ association has done is arbitrarily interpret the Broadcast Law and attempt to systematically manipulate the public into joining the “cause.” 一方、視聴者が言論で番組を批判するのは自由だ。テレビ局は謙虚に耳を傾けなくてはいけない。だが、この団体は、放送法を一方的に解釈して組織的に働きかけようとしている。In its statement, the association notified TBS that unless the latter “responds with sincerity,” a proposal will be sent to its sponsors to prevent them from becoming “accomplices” in “illegal broadcasting that negatively impacts society.” ＴＢＳの「誠意ある回答」がなければ、「違法報道による社会的な負の影響」への「加担」を防ぐ提言書をスポンサーに送ると通告。The association also stated its intention to recruit volunteers online and “take further action as needed,” depending on the sponsors’ response.ネットでボランティアを募り、企業の対応によっては「さらに必要な行動をとる」とも予告する。This is applying pressure, pure and simple.これは見過ごせない圧力である。There are many ways to complain about TV programs, including taking the complaints to the Broadcasting Ethics & Program Improvement Organization. And yet, the viewers’ association remains focused on forcing TBS to change its reporting stance by hitting its revenue source--namely, the sponsors. Such a tactic cannot possibly constitute an exercise of the right to free speech. 番組を批判する方法は様々あり、放送倫理・番組向上機構（ＢＰＯ）も機能している。にもかかわらず、放送局の収入源を揺さぶって報道姿勢を変えさせようというのでは、まっとうな言論活動とはいえない。Should any autonomous broadcaster become incapable of continuing to provide fair and unbiased reporting and keeping public authorities in check, the public loses. もし自律した放送局が公正な報道と権力監視を続けられなくなれば、被害者は国民だ。The media must reconfirm the heavy responsibility they bear to protect the public’s right to know.「知る権利」を担う重い責務を、メディアは改めて確認したい。
Apr 14, 2016
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Ｇ７外相会合 広島宣言を核廃絶に生かそう
The Yomiuri ShimbunG-7 Hiroshima Declaration must help achieve the total abolition of N-armsＧ７外相会合 広島宣言を核廃絶に生かそうIt is highly significant that the Group of Seven major powers — including the three nuclear powers of the United States, Britain and France — issued a clear message to pursue the eradication of nuclear weapons, doing so from a city flattened by the atomic bomb. 核兵器を保有する米英仏３か国も賛同し、核廃絶を追求する明確なメッセージを被爆地から発出した意味は重い。The G-7 adopted the Hiroshima Declaration on Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation at its foreign ministers’ meeting in Hiroshima. 先進７か国（Ｇ７）は広島市で外相会合を開き、核軍縮・不拡散を推進する共同文書「広島宣言」を採択した。“The people of Hiroshima and Nagasaki experienced immense devastation and human suffering,” the declaration says. To work toward a world without nuclear weapons, the declaration calls on political leaders and other people to visit the two cities. It also calls for promoting dialogue between nuclear weapon states and nonnuclear-weapon states and enhancing transparency regarding nuclear arms. 原爆で広島と長崎が「極めて甚大な壊滅と非人間的な苦難」を経験したと指摘した。「核兵器のない世界」に向けて、政治指導者らの被爆地訪問を呼び掛けた。核兵器保有国と非保有国の対話や核の透明性向上も求めている。Last year’s Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference fell apart due to confrontations between participating countries. Japan, as the only country hit by an atomic bombing, has the mission of leading nuclear disarmament efforts. Based on the Hiroshima Declaration, Japan should strive to restructure the international cooperative regime on nuclear non-proliferation. 昨年の核拡散防止条約（ＮＰＴ）再検討会議は関係国の対立で、決裂した。唯一の被爆国として、核軍縮を主導するのは、日本の使命だ。広島宣言を土台に、国際協調体制の再構築を図るべきだ。U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry on Monday became the first incumbent U.S. cabinet member to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. He laid a wreath at the cenotaph for victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Commenting on the tour of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Kerry said, “I don’t see how anyone could forget the images ... of what happened.” ケリー米国務長官は、現職閣僚として初めて平和記念公園を訪れ、原爆死没者慰霊碑に献花した。平和記念資料館の見学について、「決して忘れることのできないものとなった」と感想を述べた。Opinions that dropping atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki was justified are still strong in the United States. Kerry’s visit to Hiroshima must be used as a step toward closing the gap in perception of nuclear weapons between Japan and the United States. 原爆投下を正当化する米国世論はなお根強い。ケリー氏の訪問を、核兵器に関する日米間の認識のズレを埋める一歩としたい。Self-restraint urgedThe G-7 foreign ministers also adopted a Statement on Maritime Security, which is based on the assessment that tensions have been mounting in the South China Sea. 外相会合は、南シナ海情勢の緊迫化を踏まえて、海洋安全保障に関する声明も採択した。The statement, though without pointing fingers at China, “urges all states to refrain from such actions as land reclamations ... as well as their use for military purposes.” 中国の名指しを避けながらも、「埋め立て、拠点構築と軍事目的での利用」の自制を求めた。China has been accelerating attempts to change the status quo by force, reclaiming man-made islands and pushing ahead with militarilization on them. 中国は、人工島を造成し、軍事拠点化を進めるなど、「力による現状変更」を加速している。It is significant that not only Japan and the United States, but also the G-7 as a whole, collectively recognized the seriousness of the security situation in the region. In cooperation with Southeast Asian nations, the G-7 must tenaciously call on China to refrain from self-serving actions. 事態の深刻さについて、日米だけでなく、Ｇ７全体で共通認識を持ったことは重要だ。Ｇ７は、東南アジア各国とも連携し、中国に独善的な行動を慎むよう、粘り強く促さねばならない。The statement also emphasized the importance of settling maritime disputes in accordance with international law, including arbitration. This could serve as a warning to China, which has refused to settle a territorial dispute with the Philippines at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague. 声明は、仲裁を含む法的な紛争解決の重要性も強調した。ハーグの常設仲裁裁判所によるフィリピンとの領有権問題の解決を拒む中国を牽制けんせいする効果があろう。The G-7 foreign ministers agreed to lead global efforts to deal with the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant extremist group. 過激派組織「イスラム国」への対応策では、Ｇ７が国際連携を主導することで合意した。To prevent terrorism, it is necessary to take multilateral approaches such as sharing information, imposing stricter immigration controls and taking measures against the financing of terrorism. テロの防止には、テロリストに関する情報の共有や出入国管理の厳格化、テロ資金対策などを多角的に進める必要がある。More concrete antiterrorism measures should be put forth at the Ise-Shima G-7 summit to be held late next month. 来月下旬の主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）では、より具体的な対策を打ち出すべきだ。The G-7 foreign ministers released a joint communique condemning “in the strongest terms” the nuclear test and ballistic missile launches conducted by North Korea. It is essential for the international community to strictly implement the U.N. Security Council resolution adopted in March on sanctions against North Korea, thereby ramping up pressure on the country. Ｇ７外相は、北朝鮮の核実験と弾道ミサイル発射を強く非難した。３月の国連安全保障理事会の制裁決議を国際社会が厳格に履行し、北朝鮮への圧力を高めることが大切である。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 12, 2016)
Apr 13, 2016
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甘利氏の疑惑 説明責任はどうなった
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 10EDITORIAL: Amari long overdue to explain himself in cash scandal（社説）甘利氏の疑惑 説明責任はどうなった The special investigation department of the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office has opened a compulsory investigation into the scandal over cash received by Akira Amari, former minister in charge of economic revitalization, and by one of his former aides. 甘利明・前経済再生相の現金授受問題で、東京地検特捜部が強制捜査に乗り出した。A politician or an aide receiving profits in exchange for favors would violate the Law on Punishment of Public Officials’ Profiting by Exerting Influence. 政治家や秘書が口利きの見返りに対価を受け取れば、あっせん利得処罰法違反になる。The nature of the 6 million yen ($55,600), which Amari and his former aide received from a construction company based in Chiba Prefecture, remains unclear. 甘利氏や元秘書が千葉県の建設会社側から受け取った６００万円は、どんな趣旨なのか。Amari said he believes the money represented political donations with no reciprocal nature. But a man in charge of general affairs at the construction company has said the money was intended as remuneration for the intervention of the former aide and others in the company’s compensation talks with the semipublic Urban Renaissance Agency (UR). The company later received compensation payments from the UR. 甘利氏は見返りとは無関係の政治献金という認識を示しているが、建設会社の総務担当者は元秘書らによる都市再生機構（ＵＲ）との補償交渉への介入と、補償金の支払いが実現したことへの謝礼の意味だったと証言している。While the arguments on both sides remain far apart, it would be inexcusable for a politician or aide to receive money and exert influence on government offices or other entities at the request of the donor. 双方の主張は大きく食い違うが、政治家側がカネを受け取り、依頼者の求めに応じて役所などに働きかける――そんな口利きがもしあったとしたら、言語道断である。The Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office should do its best to uncover the entire picture of what took place.東京地検は実態の全容解明に全力をあげてもらいたい。It should not be forgotten that Amari himself has yet to fulfill his accountability. A lawmaker, who represents the people, has the responsibility to explain himself to the public whenever he comes under suspicion without waiting for investigators to uncover the case. 同時に、忘れるわけにいかないのは、甘利氏自身が説明責任を果たしていないことだ。疑惑があれば、捜査当局の解明を待つまでもなく、自ら国民に説明する。それが国民の代表である国会議員の責任だ。When he announced his resignation from the Cabinet at a news conference in late January, Amari did promise to “continue to have the case investigated by a lawyer and publish the results at appropriate timing.” 甘利氏自身、大臣辞任を表明した１月末の記者会見で「弁護士による調査を続け、しかるべきタイミングで公表する」と約束したはずである。Some other politicians who came under suspicion over fund-raising irregularities in the past defended themselves by saying, for example, that they had no way to determine the facts because documents had been seized by authorities. 過去に政治とカネの疑惑に問われた他の政治家には「捜査当局に資料が押収され、事実関係が確認できない」などと弁明する例もあった。But Amari had two-and-a-half months to look into the case after his resignation. He should be able to publish findings, even an interim report, from the investigation.だが甘利氏の場合は、大臣辞任後２カ月半、調査期間があった。途中経過であっても公表できるはずだ。Much remains unknown about the entire scandal, including whether Amari himself was involved in the case. 一連の経緯については、まだ不明な点が多い。 その一つは、甘利氏自身のかかわりである。Amari said during the news conference in January that he had learned only recently that his former aide had been talking to the UR. But UR officials later said they had been told by the former aide that Amari was aware of the talks. 甘利氏は元秘書がＵＲと交渉していることは「今回初めて知った」と１月の会見で説明したが、ＵＲはその後、甘利氏も交渉について把握していると元秘書から伝えられたとしている。Opposition parties want Amari summoned to the Lower House Budget Committee as an unsworn witness to dig out the truth. But the ruling Liberal Democratic Party has refused. 真相究明のため、野党は衆院予算委員会への甘利氏の参考人招致を求めてきたが、自民党は応じようとしない。Amari has been absent from Diet sessions, citing health problems. He may be unable to come forward on his own to explain himself, but he could still have lawyers, for example, speak on his behalf. 甘利氏は体調がすぐれないことを理由に、国会を欠席している。だが、自ら説明できなくても、例えば弁護士らを通じての説明は可能なのではないか。Prime Minister Shinzo Abe also bears heavy responsibility. 安倍首相の責任も大きい。Abe, who appointed Amari to key Cabinet positions, has admitted to his own responsibility for having appointed him. 甘利氏を重要閣僚に起用してきた首相は、自らの「任命責任」を認めている。If that is the case, the prime minister should urge Amari to explain himself. In addition, Abe, who is also the LDP president, should instruct the party to have Amari fulfill his accountability in some form or other.ならば甘利氏に説明するよう促すべきだし、党総裁として自民党にも何らかの形で説明責任を果たさせるよう指示すべきだ。
Apr 12, 2016
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広島外相会合 核なき未来への一歩に
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 7EDITORIAL: G-7 in Hiroshima a chance to move closer toward nuke-free future（社説）広島外相会合 核なき未来への一歩に The gathering in Hiroshima of top diplomats of the Group of Seven major industrialized nations, which include three nuclear powers, sends a powerful message as the world struggles to make progress toward a future without nuclear arms.The foreign ministers of the United States, Britain and France, as well as Japan and the three other G-7 members, will meet in Hiroshima, the first city to be leveled by an atomic bomb, on April 10 and 11. 核軍縮の動きが停滞している今、核保有国の米英仏を含めた主要７カ国（Ｇ７）の外交トップが核被害の原点である広島を訪れる意義は大きい。核兵器廃絶に向けた機運を、いま一度高める契機にしていきたい。On the sidelines of their meeting in Hiroshima, the G-7 foreign ministers will visit the Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the city's 1945 atomic bombing, and lay flowers at the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims on April 11.Their pilgrimages to the city should breathe new life into international efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons.They are also expected to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Their tour of the museum that documents the consequences of the U.S. atomic bombing would be even more meaningful if they hold talks with A-bomb survivors and hear their harrowing tales. 広島での会合に合わせ、Ｇ７の外相が１１日、平和記念公園をそろって訪ね、原爆死没者の名簿が納められている慰霊碑に献花することが決まった。 平和記念資料館（原爆資料館）も見学する予定だ。できれば被爆者と対話し、被爆の実相をより深く心に刻んでほしい。The G-7 officials traveling to Hiroshima include U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, the Obama administration's top Cabinet member. 参加者のうちケリー米国務長官は、オバマ政権の筆頭閣僚だ。Kerry will be the highest-ranking active U.S. politician to visit Hiroshima after Nancy Pelosi, who went in 2008 as the speaker of the House of Representatives.原爆を投下した米国の現職政治家としては、０８年に広島を訪れたペロシ下院議長（当時）に次ぐ過去最高クラスになる。More than 200,000 people perished in the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. 原爆によって広島、長崎で２０万を超す人々の命が奪われた。Many Americans, however, regard the attacks as justifiable, arguing that they accelerated Japan’s surrender in World War II and thereby saved many lives.だが米国では「日本の降伏を早め、結果的に多くの人命を救った」として、原爆投下は正当だったと考える世論が根強い。Despite serious differences between Japan and the United States in perceptions over history, President Barack Obama agreed to Japan’s request for Kerry to visit Hiroshima. We applaud Obama's weighty political decision. 日米の歴史認識に隔たりがあるなか、日本側が要望したケリー氏の被爆地訪問にオバマ政権が応じたのは重い政治判断だ。We are inclined to regard the decision as a sign that Obama, whose term will expire in January, is still committed to working toward “a world without nuclear weapons,” the vision he announced to the world in his historic speech in Prague in 2009.来年１月の任期切れを控え、オバマ大統領が０９年のプラハでの演説で掲げた「核兵器のない世界」実現に向け、なお意欲的であると受けとめたい。The Obama administration sent its ambassador to Japan to most of the annual ceremonies to commemorate the atomic bombings that have been held in Hiroshima and Nagasaki since 2010.Last year, the administration sent Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Rose Gottemoeller to attend the ceremonies. オバマ政権は１０年以降ほぼ毎年、広島、長崎の平和式典に駐日大使を参列させ、昨年は国務次官を派遣した。In Japan, expectations are growing that Obama himself will travel to the A-bombed cities when he visits Japan in May to attend the G-7 summit, to be held in Shima, Mie Prefecture.日本国内では、５月のＧ７首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）で訪日するオバマ氏自身が、被爆地に足を延ばすのではとの期待が高まる。In the United States, the political climate is heating up as the races for the Democratic and Republican nominations for the autumn presidential election are entering the home stretch. 米国は秋の大統領選に向けた民主、共和両党の候補者選びが山場を迎えている。Republican frontrunner Donald Trump has been delivering a range of harsh verbal attacks on Obama’s foreign policy.共和党の指名争いで首位を走るトランプ氏は、オバマ氏の外交姿勢を批判のやり玉に挙げてきた。Chances are that Kerry will avoid making any remarks that could be interpreted as an apology to Japan out of fears that such a comment could have a political impact on the election. 選挙への影響を考え、ケリー氏が日本への「謝罪」ととられるような言動を控える可能性は高い。But we nevertheless welcome Kerry’s decision to stand in front of the cenotaph in Hiroshima. We urge Obama to give serious consideration to visiting the cities as well.だが、慰霊碑の前に立とうとする決意は率直に評価したい。オバマ氏も訪問をぜひ前向きに検討してほしい。Even after seven decades, there are still many people in Hiroshima and Nagasaki who lost loved ones in the bombings and are suffering form health problems caused by radiation exposure. ７０年を経た今も、広島、長崎には原爆で家族を奪われ、後遺症に苦しむ人が多い。Because they have a strong desire not to see anyone suffer the same fate, people in the two cities are pinning great hopes on the visits by Kerry and other political leaders.被爆地がそれでもケリー氏らの訪問に期待するのはなぜか。それは「苦しみをもう誰にも味わわせたくない」という強い思いだ。We are eager to see people in countries with nuclear arsenals think seriously about ways to bring the world closer toward a future without nuclear weapons, something that Hiroshima and Nagasaki have been praying for so strongly and for so long. 核保有国の人々には考えてもらいたい。どうすれば被爆地が願う「核兵器のない世界」は近づくか。The G-7 foreign ministers’ visits to Hiroshima should not be allowed to end up as mere ritual. They should be a first step in effective efforts to create new momentum in international politics for realizing that goal.Ｇ７外相の広島訪問を、単なる儀礼に終わらせず、現実の国際政治を動かす一歩にしてほしい。
Apr 11, 2016
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パナマ文書流出 課税逃れ防ぐ国際連携強めよ
The Yomiuri ShimbunReinforce international cooperation to eliminate offshore evasion of taxesパナマ文書流出 課税逃れ防ぐ国際連携強めよThe leak of documents revealing the use of tax havens by world political leaders is sending shockwaves around the globe. 世界各国の政治指導者らによるタックスヘイブン（租税回避地）利用を暴露する文書が流出し、波紋を広げている。The so-called Panama Papers show that a great number of politicians — as well as their families, relatives and aides — have connections to offshore companies in the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea and other tax havens. The long list of names contains former and current world leaders. 文書は、現・元首脳を含む政治家とその親族、側近ら多数が、カリブ海の英領バージン諸島など租税回避地の会社に関与した記録だとされる。In tax havens, tax rates are set at very low levels, prompting companies and wealthy individuals to use them to reduce tax payments. They are also known for their negative aspects, including being hotbeds for illicit activities such as tax evasion, money laundering and window dressing. 極端に税率が低い租税回避地は、企業や富裕層の節税に利用されるケースが多い。脱税や資金洗浄、粉飾会計などの不法行為の温床という負の面もある。Even if their involvement in tax havens is not illegal, world leaders can be held morally responsible for avoiding tax obligations in their countries, where they should have paid taxes in the first place. They must provide explanations for every tiny detail. 法的には問題がなくても、政治家などは、本来の自国での納税義務を逃れるという道義的責任が問われよう。各国首脳らは説明を尽くさねばならない。The documents are called the “Panama Papers” because they came from a law firm in Panama. After being obtained by the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, they are now receiving multifaceted scrutiny from the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. 文書はパナマの法律事務所が出所で、「パナマ文書」と呼ばれる。独紙「南ドイツ新聞」が入手し、国際調査報道ジャーナリスト連合が多角的に分析している。Iceland’s Prime Minister Sigmundur David Gunnlaugsson was forced to resign for not disclosing ownership of an offshore company, and British Prime Minister David Cameron has his back against the wall after admitting he had invested in a Panamanian trust set up by his late father. 会社所有が発覚したアイスランドのグンロイグソン首相は、情報開示を怠ったとして、辞任に追い込まれた。亡父がパナマにファンドを設立していたキャメロン英首相は投資の事実を認め、窮地に立たされている。China response questionableJudicial authorities in European and Latin American countries, including Germany and Panama, have begun investigations to determine if there were any legal violations connected to the scandal. As a matter of course, it is important to bring any tax evasion or other illicit activities to light. It is also essential that the international community make concerted efforts to make tax havens more transparent. ドイツやパナマなど欧州や中南米の司法当局は、違法行為の有無について捜査を始めた。脱税などを摘発するのは当然だ。国際社会が連携し、租税回避地の透明性を高めることも欠かせない。Last year, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and the Group of 20 countries and regions compiled international rules to prevent multinational corporations from evading taxes under the name of fictitious business deals. 経済協力開発機構（ＯＥＣＤ）と主要２０か国・地域（Ｇ２０）は昨年、多国籍企業が実態とかけ離れた取引を名目に課税逃れをするのを防ぐ国際ルールを策定した。From the viewpoint of preventing money laundering and tax evasion, it is important to urge tax haven countries and regions to cooperate to establish such effective measures as sharing bank account information. 資金洗浄や脱税防止の観点からは、租税回避地である国・地域にも働きかけ、口座情報の交換など実効性のある協力を着実に進めることが肝要である。The response of China to the Panama Papers is questionable. The names of relatives of three top Communist Party leaders — including President Xi Jinping —emerged in the papers. The Xi administration not only flatly refused to offer any explanations but also tightened control on the Internet in an attempt to contain the spread of information. 疑問なのは、中国の対応だ。文書では、習近平国家主席ら中国共産党最高指導部３人の親族の名が浮上した。習政権は一切の説明を拒むだけでなく、インターネット規制を強め、情報拡散を抑え込もうとしている。China is the chair of this year’s G-20 summit and as such, it should take a leading role on measures against tax evasion. Given that, shouldn’t the behavior of China be considered inappropriate? 課税逃れ対策を主導すべき今年のＧ２０議長国として、ふさわしくない振る舞いではないか。Russian President Vladimir Putin also faces suspicion in connection with financial transactions conducted by a friend. The Russian president put forth a conspiracy theory, saying, “They are attempting to rock us.” But that is unpersuasive. ロシアのプーチン大統領も、友人が行った金融取引を巡る疑惑に直面している。ロシアへの「揺さぶりだ」などと語り、陰謀論を示唆したが、説得力に欠ける。Tax evasion measures will be a key agenda item at the Ise-Shima Group of Seven summit meeting to be held in Japan. The G-7 nations should come up with a clear message on this issue. 日本で開催される主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）で、課税逃れ防止は重要な議題となる。先進７か国（Ｇ７）としての明確なメッセージを打ち出すべきだ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 9, 2016)
Apr 10, 2016
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衆院選制度改革 自公と民進はなお歩み寄れ
The Yomiuri ShimbunLDP, DP must find common ground in reforming lower house elections衆院選制度改革 自公と民進はなお歩み寄れThe legislature has a duty to correct the vote-value disparity in House of Representatives elections, which (the Supreme Court ruled) are in a state of unconstitutionality. Both the ruling and opposition parties should realize without fail the reform of the electoral system during the current Diet session. 「違憲状態」とされる衆院選の「１票の格差」を是正することは、立法府の責務だ。与野党は、今国会で選挙制度改革を確実に実現すべきだ。Lower house Speaker Tadamori Oshima held talks with representatives of each party and asked the Liberal Democratic Party and the Democratic Party (Minshinto, DP) to quickly submit their bills to revise the Public Offices Election Law and other relevant laws, and to form a conclusion on electoral reform by the end of the current Diet session. 大島衆院議長が各党代表と協議し、自民、民進両党それぞれの公職選挙法改正案などの速やかな国会提出と、今国会中に結論を出すことを要請した。In other words, Oshima has for now relinquished his attempt to combine the ideas of all the parties to reform the lower house election system.現時点での一本化を断念したものだ。The election system is the foundation of democracy. Because of its nature, the system should be reviewed based on a broad consensus. It is regrettable that the ruling party and main opposition party are taking different approaches to the reform. 選挙制度は民主主義の基盤だ。本来、幅広い合意で見直すことが望ましい。与党と野党第１党の対応が分かれたのは残念である。Komeito has decided to support the LDP’s reform plan. The LDP-sponsored bills will probably be submitted to the Diet next week and are likely to be enacted during the current Diet session. However, the ruling and opposition parties should continue until the last moment their efforts to find common ground. 公明党は自民案への賛成を決めた。自民案は来週にも提出され、今国会で成立する方向だが、与野党は最後まで、一致点を見いだす努力を続けてもらいたい。The plans drawn up by the ruling and opposition parties both adopt the Adams’ method to reallocate lower house seats to single-seat constituencies in prefectures around the country. However, the LDP’s plan introduces it after a national census to be held in 2020, while the DP would introduce it immediately based on results of the 2010 census. 両案は「アダムズ方式」を採用し、小選挙区の都道府県定数を再配分することでは一致する。だが、自民案は２０２０年国勢調査後に導入するのに対し、民進案は１０年調査を基に直ちに実施する。The Adams’ method would keep the vote-value gap within 2 to 1, a ratio prescribed as fundamental in the Law for the Council on the House of Representatives Electoral District. アダムズ方式は、１票の格差を、衆院選挙区画定審議会設置法が基本とする２倍未満に収められる。The method pays due consideration to prefectures with small populations by allocating lower house seats to them in a relatively generous manner.人口の少ない県に比較的手厚く定数を配分することで、地方にも一定の配慮をしている。Seat reduction questionableSince the Adams’ method is an essential part of the report submitted by a panel of experts on the electoral system reform to the lower house speaker, it is a matter of course to stipulate it in concerned bills. 有識者調査会の答申の根幹であり、法律への明記は当然だ。If lower house seats are reallocated based on results of the 2010 census, their numbers will be “plus seven and minus 13.” In other words, a total of seven seats would be added in Tokyo and four prefectures, and one seat would be taken from each of 13 prefectures. The LDP is trying to delay the introduction of the Adams’ method, apparently aiming to avoid opposition by lawmakers elected from prefectures where the number of seats will decrease. １０年国勢調査に基づいて再配分すると、定数は東京都と４県で計７増え、１３県で各１減る「７増１３減」となる。自民党が導入を遅らせるのは、定数が減る県の議員らの反発を避ける狙いだろう。The LDP’s plan reduces six lower house seats based on results of the simplified census conducted in 2015, and also reviews the demarcation of electoral districts around the country. Its implementation would mean that the demarcation of electoral districts could be changed twice in some areas, when it goes into effect and after the introduction of the Adams’ method. 自民案は当面、１５年の簡易国勢調査に基づいて、定数を「０増６減」するほか、全国的に区割りを見直す。地域によっては、今回と、アダムズ方式導入後の２回、区割りが変更される恐れがある。Some observers point out that it might harm the stability of the election system and ties between lawmakers and voters. 選挙制度の安定性や、議員と有権者のつながりが損なわれかねないとの指摘も出ている。It is questionable why both plans have included a reduction in the number of lower house seats. They each reduce a total of six seats from single-seat constituencies and four from the proportional representation section. 疑問なのは、両案とも定数削減を盛り込んだことだ。小選挙区は６、比例は４減らす。If the number of seats is reduced, it will become more difficult to choose lawmakers representing a wide variety of public opinion, and it might lessen the legislature’s ability to monitor the administration. It is worth noting that Japan has relatively fewer Diet members than those in European countries in relation to its population. 定数を減らせば、多様な民意を代表する議員を選びにくくなる。立法府の行政監視機能も低下しかねない。人口比でみれば、日本の国会議員は欧州各国より多くないことにも留意する必要がある。Parties also must deepen discussions on the adverse effects of reducing the number of lower house seats without being caught by their own rhetoric, namely their public pledges to sacrifice their own interests and reduce the number of Diet seats. 各党は、「身を切る改革」という定数削減の公約によって自縄自縛に陥ることなく、その弊害の議論を深めることも大切だ。Since transition to the new electoral system is likely to require more than a year due to the need to review the demarcation of electoral districts and publicize the relevant bills to voters after they are enacted, the ruling and opposition parties must hasten deliberations. 新制度への移行には、関連法案の成立後、区割りの見直し作業や周知期間などで１年以上を要する可能性がある。与野党は、法案審議を急がねばならない。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 8, 2016)
Apr 9, 2016
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ＴＰＰと国会 承認ありきは許されぬ
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 6EDITORIAL: Abe must not be allowed to rush Diet approval of TPP accord（社説）ＴＰＰと国会 承認ありきは許されぬ The Lower House has started deliberating a draft approval of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) accord and a bill to revise all 11 related laws. 環太平洋経済連携協定（ＴＰＰ）の承認案と、関連する１１本の法律を一括改正する法案の審議が、衆院で始まった。Ever since the World Trade Organization fell into dysfunction, bilateral and multilateral agreements on free trade and economic cooperation have propelled market liberalization. 世界貿易機関（ＷＴＯ）が機能不全に陥った後、二国間や多国間の自由貿易・経済連携協定が自由化の推進役となっている。The TPP, in particular, has 12 signatories from the Asia-Pacific region, which leads the global economy, and their combined gross domestic product represents 40 percent of the world total. Japan, which continues to languish under sluggish economic growth, pins considerable hopes on what this accord could bring.中でもＴＰＰには世界経済を引っ張るアジア太平洋の１２カ国が参加し、国内総生産（ＧＤＰ）で世界の４割を占める。低成長が続く日本にとって、その効果への期待は小さくない。The TPP is called a “21st century-type” accord because it covers matters concerning intellectual property, the environment and labor, in addition to the elimination and reduction of tariffs and the liberalization of capital investment. But since the accord is expected to affect many industry sectors and the people’s lives in all sorts of ways, grave concerns and questions have been raised, not to mention stiff opposition. ＴＰＰが扱うのは関税の撤廃・引き下げや投資の自由化などのほか、知的財産や環境・労働分野に及び、「２１世紀型」と呼ばれる。さまざまな産業や国民生活への影響が予想され、不安や疑問、反対論も根強い。The Diet, which represents the people, has the responsibility to address these concerns through debate. We hope each political party will base its stance and proposals on the protection of consumer interests. 審議を通じてそうした声に向き合うことが、国民の代表としての国会の責任だろう。各党は「消費者の利益」を基準に、是非と対策を考える姿勢で審議を尽くしてほしい。One disturbing factor is the unmistakable eagerness of the government and the ruling coalition to approve the TPP during the current Diet session. 気がかりなのは、今の国会でＴＰＰを承認しようという与党と政府の前のめりな姿勢だ。All TPP 12 signatories signed the accord in February, but each country must secure the approval of its national assembly and complete all necessary procedures for the accord to take effect. Under the TPP rules, the completion of such procedures by the United States and Japan--the two leading nations--is indispensable. 参加１２カ国は２月にＴＰＰに署名したが、発効には各国が議会承認を含めて必要な手続きを終えねばならない。ＴＰＰの規定では、２大国である米国と日本の手続き完了が不可欠だ。But the United States is currently in the middle of its primaries season, and the front-runner presidential candidates--both Democratic and Republican--are negative toward the TPP. The prevalent thinking in America is that Congress will not approve the accord until after election day in November. 大統領選の最中にある米国では、民主、共和両党とも有力候補はこぞってＴＰＰに否定的。議会承認は１１月の大統領選後、との見方がもっぱらである。The administration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe positions the TPP as one of the pillars of its “Abenomics” economic policy. The prime minister enthuses, “Japan will take the lead to speed up the accord’s approval.” But hasty Diet deliberations must not be allowed. 安倍政権はＴＰＰをアベノミクスの柱の一つと位置づける。「日本が率先して発効への機運を高める」と意気込むが、拙速な審議は許されない。And if Abe is hoping to quickly settle this matter in view of the Upper House election this summer and the possibility of holding a Lower House election on the same day, he has his priorities completely wrong.夏の参院選や、取りざたされる衆参同日選をにらみ、懸案を片付けておこうとの思惑なら本末転倒だ。The main opposition Democratic Party is poised to focus on issues related to the reduction and elimination of tariffs on farm and fisheries products. 民進党は、農林水産分野の関税撤廃・引き下げ問題を中心に追及する構えだ。Three years ago, the Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Committee of the Upper House as well as the Lower House voted to ensure careful handling of this matter regarding rice and four other items of greatest importance. But the Democratic Party must refrain from obsessing on whether these five items are protected under the TPP accord. The party must try not to lose sight of the big picture. 衆参の農林水産委員会は３年前、コメなど重要５項目に十分に配慮するよう決議している。ＴＰＰの協定案が５項目を「聖域」として守っているかを突くだけでなく、幅広い視点からの議論を心がけてほしい。Ample information is necessary to ensure thorough discussions. The government has finally agreed to disclose records of meetings between U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman and Akira Amari, former minister in charge of TPP negotiations, but the documents have been extensively blacked out. The government must do its best to disclose information. 徹底した審議には十分な情報が必要だ。交渉で主役を演じた甘利明・前ＴＰＰ担当相とフロマン・米通商代表部代表の会談資料について、政府はようやく開示に応じることを決めたが、黒塗りだという。できるだけ情報公開に努めるべきだ。We also demand anew that Amari explain the bribery suspicion he is under. If this is difficult now because of his poor health, this is all the more reason not to rush into approving the TPP accord. 甘利氏が金銭授受疑惑について説明責任を果たすことも、改めて求めたい。体調がすぐれず難しいなら、なおさらＴＰＰの承認を急ぐべきではない。
Apr 8, 2016
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異次元緩和３年 限界認め、軌道修正を
--The Asahi Shimbun, April 5EDITORIAL: BOJ should reconsider aggressive easing policy three years after its implementation（社説）異次元緩和３年 限界認め、軌道修正を Three long years have passed since the Bank of Japan, under the leadership of Governor Haruhiko Kuroda, launched its “different dimension” policy of aggressive monetary expansion. 日本銀行が黒田東彦（はるひこ）総裁のもとで「異次元」の金融緩和を始めてから３年。The new program started as a short-term, turbocharged effort to achieve the central bank’s policy goals within two years. The deadline passed and another full year has gone by, but the central bank has yet to hit its inflation target of 2 percent.２年間の「短期決戦」として始まったはずの政策は、２年がすぎ、３年たっても、掲げてきた２％のインフレ目標を達成できていない。While the BOJ has repeatedly pushed back the target date, negative effects of the radical monetary easing policy have started making themselves felt. The risks it poses to Japan’s overall economic health are steadily growing. 日銀が期限を次々と延ばす間に、緩和に伴う副作用が目につき始め、抱えるリスクはじわじわと増している。The BOJ should now change tack instead of enhancing and expanding this risky approach.日銀が実行すべきなのは緩和の強化ではなく、軌道修正を図ることだ。Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s pro-growth economic policy, known as Abenomics, is composed of three “arrows,” or key components. They are bold monetary easing, flexible fiscal spending and a growth strategy designed to stimulate private-sector investment. 安倍政権の経済政策「アベノミクス」は、（１）大胆な金融緩和（２）機動的な財政出動（３）民間投資を促す成長戦略の「３本の矢」からなる。The Abe administration has unveiled “new three arrows” focused on measures to support nursing care and child care. But the basic framework of its economic policy agenda has remained unchanged.政権は介護や子育て政策の充実に力点を置く「新３本の矢」を打ち出したが、政策の骨格は変わっていない。The second and third arrows of Abe's original blueprint are nothing new. Most of his predecessors tried to boost the economy through fiscal stimulus packages comprising massive government spending and new plans to put the economy on an upward trajectory. 当初の２、３本目の矢は目新しいものではない。多くの政権が景気対策で財政を膨らませ、成長戦略も練ってきた。The first arrow, the extraordinary program to expand the money supply, is the unique feature of Abenomics that constitutes its core.１本目の異次元緩和こそが異色でありアベノミクスの柱と言える。Under this program, the BOJ buys huge amounts of government bonds to flood the economy with liquidity and thereby guides long-term interest rates to historically low levels. 日銀が大量の国債を買いあげ、巨額のマネーを市場に注ぎ込む。そうして長期金利を歴史的な低水準に引き下げる。Abe selected Kuroda as the central bank chief to preside over such unprecedented monetary expansion. This move, made under the slogan of “escape from deflation,” is aimed at putting the onus solely on the central bank’s monetary policy, which doesn’t impose a new financial burden on the public immediately.安倍政権は日銀にそんな大胆な金融緩和を行わせようと黒田氏を日銀総裁に選んだ。「デフレ脱却」を旗印に、ただちに国民負担が生じるわけではない金融政策に寄りかかる構図である。WEAK RIPPLE EFFECTS ■弱かった波及効果Initially, many economists praised Abenomics as a successful policy effort because it led to a weaker yen and higher stock prices. As a result, Japanese companies, especially export-oriented manufacturers, notched record earnings, which translated into pay growth, to a certain extent. 当初、アベノミクスを「成功している」と評価する声が多かったのは、円安と株高が進んだためだ。輸出産業を中心に企業が過去最高水準の収益をあげ、賃上げも一定程度は実現した。But the benefits of Abenomics were overestimated in a sense. When the Abe administration was inaugurated at the end of 2012, the yen had already started falling against the dollar and the euro, which had strengthened due to recovery of the U.S. economy and the defused debt crisis in Europe. ただ、その効果は過大評価された面がある。政権が発足した２０１２年末は米国経済の回復と欧州金融危機の沈静化を受けたドル高・ユーロ高に伴い、円安が始まっていた。The upturn of the global economy was setting the stage for a stock market rally. Abenomics mainly served as a catalyst that caused these factors to start kicking in.世界経済の好転で株高の環境も整いつつあった。アベノミクスがその背中を押した、というのが実態だろう。Many economists point out that Abenomics has produced far fewer benefits for small and midsize businesses and most workers than the gains enjoyed by large companies and well-to-do individual investors. 大企業や裕福な個人投資家が受けた恩恵に比べ、中小企業や大多数の働き手への効果が乏しいとの指摘は根強い。The policy has failed to produce so-called “trickle-down effects,” which mean increased wealth in one sector of the economy produces benefits for other sectors as well. Japanese people’s real income has barely grown.富が滴り落ちるように広がる「トリクルダウン」は実現せず、国民の実質所得は伸び悩む。Japan’s real economic growth in the past three years has been by and large slower than during the previous government led by the then-Democratic Party of Japan. Abe’s economic policy program has not given any big boost to the real economy in terms of growth in consumer spending or business investment.ここ３年の実質経済成長率はその前の民主党政権時代より総じて低く、消費や投資という実体経済への波及は弱々しい。When the BOJ made another radical move to ramp up the money supply in February by introducing negative interest rates for part of commercial banks’ reserves at the central bank, the unwanted side effects became more pronounced. 日銀が２月、金融機関が日銀に預ける当座預金の一部に初めてマイナス金利を導入すると、副作用が目立ち始めた。Due partly to deteriorating economic conditions in many other countries, Japan’s stock and currency markets have been fluctuating wildly since then.海外経済の動揺もあって、株式市場や外国為替市場では乱高下が繰り返し起こっている。The negative interest rate policy has hit the earnings of financial institutions by reducing their profit margins and cast a pall over the long-term prospects of pension funds management.マイナス金利は、利ざやが取れない金融機関の収益を苦しくし、資産を長期運用する年金などの持続性にも影を落とす。DANGER OF GETTING CAUGHT IN ITS OWN TRAP ■自縄自縛の危うさStill, the BOJ has remained optimistic about the effectiveness of its monetary policy. It has kept claiming it can achieve the inflation target since it still has abundant policy options to use. それでも日銀は強気の姿勢を崩していない。「やれる手はいくらでもある。目標は達成できる」と言い続けている。Last year, speaking at an international conference, Kuroda referred to a passage in the story of Peter Pan saying, “The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it,” and said, “Yes, what we need is a positive attitude and conviction.” 黒田総裁は昨年、国際会議で語った。「ピーターパンの物語に『飛べるかどうかを疑った瞬間に永遠に飛べなくなってしまう』という言葉がある。大切なのは前向きな姿勢と確信だ」His “different dimension” monetary policy plays on people’s expectations. The idea is that if the BOJ sets a specific inflation target and promises to take every possible step to achieve it both businesses and consumers will start spending their money because of their inflationary expectations. 異次元緩和は、期待に働きかける政策である。日銀がインフレ目標を示し、あらゆる手を打つと約束すれば、企業も消費者もそうなると考えて投資や消費におカネを使うようになる。そんな考えにもとづく。In fact, however, the inflation rate has remained around zero due partly to lower prices of oil and other energy resources. The BOJ’s policy has not awakened inflationary expectations. 実際には、原油などの資源安もあって足元の物価の伸びはほぼゼロで推移している。インフレ期待は高まっていない。The BOJ seems to have avoided admitting this fact because of concerns about dousing expectations for rising prices. If so, the central bank has gotten caught in a trap it has created itself.それでも、期待に水を差すような説明はできない。日銀はそんな自縄自縛に陥っていないか。The BOJ already owns more than 30 percent of the government bonds outstanding, and this rate will keep rising. 日銀はすでに国債発行残高の３割超を保有しており、比率はさらに上がっていく。If the central bank starts financing the government’s debt through its bond-purchasing program, fiscal discipline could collapse, triggering tumbles of government bond prices and the yen’s value.国債発行という政府の借金を日銀が手助けする「財政ファイナンス」に陥れば、財政規律が揺らぎ、国債価格や円相場の急落リスクが高まりかねない。The longer the BOJ continues prolonging and expanding its aggressive monetary policy, the bigger the risk for the Japanese economy.異次元緩和を強化し、長びかせるほど、日本経済が抱える危うさはマグマのようにたまっていく。The central banks, including the BOJ, are guaranteed independence from the governments of their countries to ensure that they will not serve as policy tools of the governments. If they allow their actions to be dictated by the government, the public will have to pay the price for their distorted and misguided monetary policies. 日銀を含む各国の中央銀行が政府からの独立を保証されているのは、政府の道具となって金融政策がゆがみ、そのツケを国民が払う事態を避けるためだ。The BOJ should ask itself whether it is acting as an agent for the government.今の日銀は政権の下請け機関になっていないか。IRRESPONSIBILITY OF RELYING TOTALLY ON BOJ ■日銀頼みの無責任The Abe administration has started considering additional measures to stoke economic growth, including a supplementary budget. There are also rumors that the administration is considering another postponement of the scheduled hike of the consumption tax rate to 10 percent. 安倍政権は補正予算編成を含む経済対策を検討し始め、１０％への消費増税の再延期論もくすぶる。The government would be acting in a grossly irresponsible manner if it takes such fiscal policy measures that apparently assume that the BOJ will continue purchasing government bonds.日銀による国債の買い支えがずっと続くことを前提にしたかのような財政運営は無責任である。The government needs to start taking steps to restore a healthy and sustainable fiscal policy with an eye to future generations. 将来の世代も見すえ、持続可能な財政へと再建していく。At the same time, the government should tackle structural reforms to ensure economic growth driven by private-sector investment and consumption. These are what the administration should do.同時に民間の投資や消費が引っぱる日本経済の発展をめざし、地道に構造改革に取り組む。それが政権の仕事だろう。To prompt the government to embark on such sound policy efforts, the BOJ needs to explain the limitations of the effects of its radical monetary policy more clearly and in more detail to the administration. そう促すためにも、日銀は異次元緩和の限界について、もっと政権に対して説明する必要がある。That would be a good first step toward correcting problems with its policy stance, which is excessively biased toward monetary easing.それが、「緩和強化」一辺倒の路線を修正する第一歩となる。
Apr 7, 2016
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サミットとテロ 官民一体で脅威を封じ込めよ
The Yomiuri ShimbunJoint public-private efforts essential to deter terrorists attacking G-7 summitサミットとテロ 官民一体で脅威を封じ込めよGiven the increasing threat posed by international terrorism, all possible measures must be taken to deter acts of violence. 国際テロの脅威が高まる中、凶行の抑止に万全を期さねばならない。Less than two months are left before the Ise-Shima Summit of the Group of Seven major powers, which will be held on May 26-27 in Mie Prefecture. A series of G-7 ministerial meetings is scheduled to be held in various parts of the country, starting with a foreign ministerial conference that opens in Hiroshima on Sunday. ５月２６、２７日の主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）まで、２か月を切った。今月１０日から広島市で開かれる外相会合を手始めに、関係閣僚会合も順次、各地で予定されている。Antiterrorism measures will likely be the major topic of discussions at the upcoming summit. It would be no surprise if terrorists regard the summit itself as a suitable target. This is the sixth time for Japan to host the summit, and it will be held under circumstances in which the danger of terrorism is felt more realistically than ever. サミットでは、テロ対策が主要な議題の一つとなる見通しだ。テロリストが、その場を格好の標的と捉えても不思議はない。日本でのサミットは６回目だが、これまで以上にテロの危険性が現実化する状況での開催と言えよう。First of all, it is vital to keep terrorists from entering this country. まず重要なのは、テロリストを入国させないことである。In December, the government inaugurated the Counterterrorism Unit-Japan at the initiative of the Prime Minister’s Office. To determine the moves of overseas extremist groups and block the entry of suspicious individuals at the nation’s borders, it is indispensable to ramp up cooperation with foreign organizations. 政府は昨年１２月、首相官邸が主導して「国際テロ情報収集ユニット」を発足させた。海外の過激派組織の動向を把握し、不審者の侵入を水際で防ぐため、海外機関との連携強化が欠かせない。Preparing against cyber-attacks is also important. Strict management of systems are needed especially for such key infrastructures as power supply and transportation networks. サイバー攻撃への備えも大切だ。特に、電力や交通などの重要インフラについては、厳重なシステム管理が求められる。It is necessary to keep a constant lookout for home-grown terrorism. Even in Japan, there are more than a few young people who have expressed support on the Internet for the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant extremist group. The contents of their posts must be examined to nip potential crimes in the bud. 「ホームグロウン・テロ」（自国育ちのテロ）に対する警戒は怠れない。インターネット上で「イスラム国」への支持を表明する若者らは、日本にも少なくない。書き込みの内容をチェックし、犯行の芽を摘む必要がある。Enhance securityNeedless to say, it is essential to raise the proficiency of security at the venue on the assumption that terrorists will furtively reach the site. テロリストが紛れ込んだ場合を想定し、会場警備の練度向上が必要なのは言うまでもない。The land routes to Kashikojima island, the venue for the G-7 summit, are limited to two bridges, which may be advantageous in terms of ensuring security. サミット会場の賢島に陸路で渡る手段が２本の橋に限られるのは警備上の利点と言える。On the other hand, it is a cause of concern that there are many places for terrorists to conceal themselves, including rafts used for pearl-culturing and bushes on the island.一方で、真珠の養殖いかだや島内の茂みなど、テロリストが身を隠せる場所が多いのは懸念材料である。During the Gleneagles Summit in 2005, London, which was 600 kilometers away, became the target of multiple attacks. Strong concern has been expressed about the possibility of terrorist attacks committed in Tokyo and elsewhere this time. ２００５年の英グレンイーグルズサミットでは、約６００キロ離れたロンドンが同時テロの舞台になった。今回も、東京などでの発生を不安視する声は強い。Attacks have occurred one after another across the globe, aiming at such soft targets as theaters and stadiums where many people from all walks of life gather. It would be impossible to protect such facilities in Japan using police forces alone. 劇場や競技場など、不特定多数の人が集まる「ソフトターゲット」を狙ったテロが世界で相次ぐ。国内のそうした施設を、警察だけで守るのは不可能だろう。If visitors to a venue notice something out of the ordinary, they must quickly inform the authorities concerned. The operator of the facilities should cooperate to ensure security by carrying out thorough inspections of hand baggage and taking other measures. 来場者が異常に気付いた場合には、速やかに通報することが大事だ。施設側も手荷物検査の徹底などでテロ防止に協力したい。Various international events, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, are scheduled to be hosted by Japan after the summit. Countermeasures must be beefed up from the medium- and long-term perspective. サミット後も、２０年の東京五輪など大規模イベントが控える。中長期的な視点で、対策を強化せねばならない。It would be worthwhile studying the introduction of a system of issuing alert levels against terrorism like those issued in the case of volcanic eruptions.火山の噴火のように、テロの警戒レベルを公表するシステムの導入は検討に値しよう。In-depth discussions also should be held on the advisability of easing the requirements to allow wiretapping and making conspiracy a crime. 通信傍受の要件緩和や共謀罪創設などの是非についても、議論を深めるべきだ。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 5, 2016)
Apr 6, 2016
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国立公文書館 生の歴史に触れられる施設に
The Yomiuri ShimbunNew national archives should help visitors learn real aspects of history国立公文書館 生の歴史に触れられる施設にPublic records and archives that pass down Japan’s history are precious treasures belonging to the people. It is an important duty of the government to upgrade the National Archives of Japan in Tokyo, which collects and preserves such assets. 日本の歩みを伝える公文書は、国民の貴重な財産である。それを収集・保管する東京の国立公文書館を充実させることは政府の大切な責務だ。 A panel of experts set by the Cabinet Office has compiled a basic concept to construct a new building to house the national archives. On the basis of the plan, a subcommittee of the House of Representatives Rules and Administration Committee will start the process of selecting the construction site. We hope the selection should be made quickly. 内閣府の有識者会議が、新たな国立公文書館の基本構想をまとめた。これを受け、衆院議院運営委員会の小委員会が建設地の選定を始める。早期決定を望みたい。Listed as proposed sites are a plot of land where the Parliamentary Museum is located near the Diet Building, and a parking lot used by buses for visitors to the Diet. 候補地に挙がったのは、国会近くの憲政記念館を含む一角と、国会参観者用のバス駐車場だ。Of the two, what is considered as a reliable option is to demolish the aging Parliamentary Museum and construct a new facility to house the national archives together with the museum. The biggest factor in the site becoming a likely candidate is that it can secure ample floor space. このうち、老朽化した憲政記念館を解体し、新築する施設に国立公文書館を同居させる案が有力視されている。十分な面積を確保できることが最大の要因だ。The main office of the National Archives of Japan, located in the Kitanomaru Koen area of Tokyo’s Chiyoda Ward, is cramped, with a total floor space of 11,550 square meters. The existing national archives’ storage space, when combined with its annex building in Tsukuba, Ibaraki Prefecture, is expected to reach full capacity by fiscal 2019. 北の丸公園にある現在の公文書館本館は、１万１５５０平方メートルと手狭だ。本館と茨城県つくば市の分館を合わせた収納スペースは２０１９年度にも満杯となる。Should the construction of the new national archives be delayed, the government will be forced to study the possibility of temporarily renting shelf space from the private sector. Will it not lead to concern over the management of public documents and archives? 新公文書館の建設が遅れれば、民間の書庫を一時的に借りることを検討せざるを得ない。そうなると、公文書の管理体制などに不安が生じるのではないか。The existing national archives compare extremely poorly to those of the United States and European countries in both hardware and software. The total bookshelf length, when the two national archives are combined, is only 72 kilometers. This is far short of the United States, which has a total length of 1,400 kilometers, and Britain, which totals 200 kilometers. 欧米諸国と比べて、現在の公文書館がハード、ソフトの両面で著しく見劣りすることは否めない。館内の書架は総延長７２キロ・メートルで、米国の１４００キロ、英国の２００キロなどに遠く及ばない。Foster archivistsTaking these points into consideration, the basic concept has recommended that the new national archives have floor space of 40,000 to 50,000 square meters. こうした点を踏まえ、基本構想は、新公文書館の広さについて、４万～５万平方メートル程度が望ましいと提言した。It is also important that the basic concept has called for securing exhibition space where the temperature and humidity can be rigorously controlled.温度や湿度の管理を徹底した展示スペースの確保を求めたのも、重要なポイントだ。At the current national archives, the original texts of valuable public records and archives such as the Constitution of Japan are usually displayed only in the form of replicas. If the original items were displayed constantly, they could suffer damage due to poorly controlled air-conditioning and other functions. 現在の公文書館では、日本国憲法など貴重な公文書の原本については通常、レプリカの展示にとどまる。原本を常時展示すると、不十分な空調などにより、傷みが生じる恐れがあるためだ。If visitors were able to view the original public records anytime they visited, opportunities for them to come into contact with important phases of history would increase markedly. 生の公文書がいつでも見られるようになれば、歴史の重要な局面に触れる機会が格段に増える。It is also desirable to introduce an official qualification system, as proposed in the basic plan, to foster archivists, experts specializing in the management of public records and archives. アーキビストと呼ばれる文書管理の専門家を育成するため、基本構想が公的資格制度の導入を求めた点も、実現に移したい。The national archives will become more interesting to people if improvements are made in having staff plan riveting exhibitions by utilizing their expertise and catering appropriately to requests from visitors. 専門知識を生かして、興味深い展示を企画する。来館者から寄せられる要望に、的確に応える。こうしたスタッフの配置を充実させれば、公文書館が国民にとって、より身近な存在になるだろう。Digitalizing documents at the new national archives and building a search-and-access system linked with related facilities in local communities would also help enhance the convenience of users. 文書をデジタル化し、地方の関連施設などと結ぶ検索・閲覧システムを構築することも、利用者の利便性向上につながる。Under the tight fiscal situation, however, it would be difficult to expand the functions of the national archives immediately. The government should steadily advance plans that respect the principles of the basic concept. 厳しい財政状況の中、公文書館の機能を一足飛びに拡充させるのは困難だ。基本構想の理念を尊重した施策を着実に進めたい。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 4, 2016)
Apr 5, 2016
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Why Prof. Krugman reveals the secret?
Why Prof. Krugman reveals the secret?クルーグマン教授、議事録全文暴露の真相クルーグマン教授が一番心配しているのは、自分の打ち立てた経済理論が崩壊させられることです。教授は体面上、自身のメモといっているようですが、実際は、会議を全部録音しておいて、あとで、それをタイピングした。こんなところでしょう。クルーグマン教授はアベノミクス政策が、すでに失敗しているのを認めていますが、自分が苦労して打ち立てた理論が否定されるのが怖かった。クルーグマン教授にとって、その理論の命は金融緩和政策（財政出動）だけです。例えそれが間違っていて結果が出なくても、さらなる間違った道、すなわち、さらなる金融緩和政策につき進むしか、道はありません。（クルーグマン教授発言参照）クルーグマン教授にとって、構造改革や消費増税の延期などどうでもよいことですが、消費税については、きわめて婉曲的に、賛同するような、あいまいな発言を残しています。それだけ、前もって、消費増税延期を促すような発言が期待されていたのでしょう。それでプレッシャーがかかり、記者会見のフラッシュライトを浴びている瞬間に、議事録全文の暴露を決心したのでしょう。会議の本質（金融緩和政策）を外れ、都合のよい部分（消費増税延期）だけを引用され、消費増税延期の理由造りの片棒を担がされることに、異常な抵抗、反抗心を燃やしたといったところです。こんなところでしょう。以下、議事録のさわりの部分、Fiscal policy. では財政政策についてです。Everything we have seen for the past seven years suggests that fiscal policy remains effective, especially effective in these circumstances. It has been very difficult to apply it, a few years of bad debt, political conflict, the Europe is divided among counties, the United States is divided between parties, but fiscal policy is effective and the global environment right now is one where economies really, really need fiscal support. 過去7年間に我々が目にしたことのすべてが、財政政策は有効であり続けたことを示しています。それも、こうした状況のなかではとりわけ有効なのです。これを採用するのは非常に難しいことであります。数年間は不良債権を抱えることになり、政治的な対立があり、ヨーロッパは国ごとに分断されており、アメリカは政党間の分断があり…。それでも、財政政策は有効であり、目下の世界的な状況こそはまさに、諸国の経済が本当に、本当に財政の支援を必要としているときなのです。The idea that one should be prioritizing long-run budget issue over fiscal support now seems to me to be extremely misguided. Obviously I am talking about the consumption tax here. 財政による支援よりも、長期的な予算問題を優先すべし、という考えは、今は極めて見当違いなものと私には思われます。私が申し上げておりますのは、言うまでもなく、消費税のことであります。Two points are following on all of that. これら全てのことがらから、2つのことを言うことができます。You notice that I did not say anything about structural reform. That is not because I am against it but because structural reform seems largely beside the point on this crucial issue of boosting demand. 〔その一つ目は、〕私が構造改革 structural reform について何も申し上げなかったことにお気づきかと存じます。私が構造改革に反対であるからというわけではありません。そうではないのですが、需要を押し上げる boosting demand という最重要課題 critical issue からはだいぶ的を外れたものと考えられるからなのです。Some kind of structural reform might spur private investment, which is good but that is rarely what is emphasized. ある種の構造改革は民間投資に拍車をかけることもあるかもしれません。それはよいのですが、多くの場合はそこに重点があるわけではないのです。Some other kinds of reform, the Abenomics, by expanding the future labor force helps to offset the demographic headwinds that the economies face. また他の種類のいろいろな改革、つまりアベノミクスですが、将来の労働力を拡大することは、経済が直面している人口動態的な逆風を相殺する助けにはなります。So all of that is good but I do worry that sometimes the talk of structural reform becomes an excuse not to deal with the primary immediate issue of sufficient demand, of fighting deflation or low-flation, inadequate inflation, which has got to rely on monetary policy. ですから、そうしたことの全ては良いことなのですが、私がたいへんに心配しているのは、構造改革の話は、ときに、第一に差し迫った問題に対処しないための口実になることがあるということです。第一に差し迫った問題とは、十分な需要、デフレや低インフレとの戦い、不十分なインフレとの戦いといった、金融政策にかかわるものなのです。But as I said, that has limits and on fiscal policy which needs to be more focused on that immediate need than it has been. しかし、私が申し上げましたように、それ〔金融政策〕には限界があるのですから、財政政策の面で、この差し迫った必要に、いままでよりももっと焦点を当てる必要があるのです。A last point, it is very important, I would argue, in this circumstance to understand that the risks are asymmetric. そして最後の一点となりますが、これは非常に大事な点です。なにかと申しますと、この状況下では「リスクが非対称である the risks are asymmetric 」ということを理解するのがきわめて重要である、と論じさせていただきたいのです。It could be that I am being too pessimistic and that things are going to be all right and demand would be stronger and there would be spontaneous recovery. It could be that things are even worse than I am portraying, that China is going to experience an explosive collapse, or simply that demand is going to be weaker than even my rather downbeat projections. 私が悲観的すぎるだけであって、いろんなことがうまくいって、需要はもっと強くなり、自然に回復する、ということだってありえなくはありません。〔しかしその反対に、〕私が描写したよりもさらに事態が悪化するということだってありえなくはないのです。中国が爆発的な崩壊をするとか、ただ単純に需要が私のかなり陰気な予測よりもさらに弱くなる、とかいったふうにです。The consequences in those two circumstances are very different. この2つの状況〔良い方か悪い方か〕では、運命 consequenses はまったく異なるものとなってしまいます。If the world economy starts growing and inflation picks up, we know what to do. Mr. Kuroda, Mrs. Yellen, Mr. Draghi have had the tools to deal with that, no problem. もし世界経済が成長を始めてインフレ率が上昇したならば、我々は何をすべきかわかっています。黒田氏も、イエレン氏も、ドラギ氏も、それに対処する手段を持っていることでしょう。なんら問題はありません。If the world turns out to be weaker, then we are in deep trouble because we do not have effective tools, which mean that it is very important to err on the side of being more expansionary. 〔しかしその反対に、〕もし世界がもっと弱いことが明らかになったならば、我々は深刻なトラブルに陥っていることになります。というのも、そのとき我々は有効な手段を持っていないからです。これが何を意味するかというと、もし間違うならば、財政拡大的〔景気拡大的〕すぎた more expansionary という方へ間違うことが非常に大事だということです。This is an argument that my old colleague Larry Summers has made many times and I make it also. It is not simply what you expect to happen but what happens if you are wrong in either direction. It is very, very important to leave room in case you should be wrong on the downside. 私の古くからの同僚であるラリー・サマーズがよくしていた議論があるのですが、それを私も述べさせていただきたいのです。〔つまり、〕何が起きるだろうかと予測することだけが大事なのではなくて、どう予測するにせよ、予測が間違っていたら何が起きてしまうのか、ということが大事なのです。かりに事態が悪い方へ転んだ場合にも、それに対処する余地があるということが、非常に、非常に重要なことなのです。So, this is the time for expansion. It should be coordinated as much as possible. I know the G7 Summit is coming up. Ideally we would have everyone agreeing on a coordinated fiscal expansion, in practice, that might mean Japan and Canada. I am not sure anyone else is prepared to deliver at this point but we can certainly try to have the language push in that direction. ですから、いまは財政拡大をすべきときなのです this is the time for expantion 。できるかぎり協調的 coordinated であるべきです。G7が近づいていることは存じ上げています。理想は、みんなが強調的な財政拡大政策 fiscal expansion について合意することですが、実際にはそれは日本とカナダということになるかもしれません。それ以外の誰かに今の時点で実行の用意があるかどうか、私にはわかりません。ですが、議論 the language 〔声明？〕をその方向へ押し進めるよう試みることはできるはずです。Japan itself needs to remain focused. The original goals of Abenomics are still the primal. Breaking out of that deflationary cycle is “Goal Number 1”. Everything else should wait upon that. 日本こそまさに集中しつづける必要があります。アベノミクスの最初からの諸目標が今でも最重要 primal なのです。デフレのサイクルから脱出することが「最重要目標 Goal Number 1」なのです。他の全てはそれを待たねばなりません。Now I will throw it open. Thank you. それでは以上をもって、討論へと供したく存じます I will throw it open 。ありがとうございます。
Apr 4, 2016
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日銀短観悪化 景気下支えに重要なＧ７協調
The Yomiuri ShimbunCooperation of G-7 nations crucial in order to prop up global economy日銀短観悪化 景気下支えに重要なＧ７協調Economic prospects are becoming increasingly uncertain. 景気の先行き不透明感が強まっている。The headline diffusion index for business sentiment among large Japanese manufacturers stood at plus six, according to the Bank of Japan’s quarterly Tankan survey for March, down six points from the previous survey for December. ３月の日銀企業短期経済観測調査（短観）は、企業の景況感を示す業況判断指数が大企業・製造業で６となり、昨年１２月の前回調査から６ポイント低下した。The index for large nonmanufacturers declined by three points to 22, the first decline in 18 months. The sentiment index for small and medium-size firms fell in both the manufacturing and nonmanufacturing sectors. 大企業・非製造業は、３ポイント低い２２で、１年半ぶりに悪化した。中小企業も、製造業と非製造業の指数がそろって下がった。Due to the business slowdown in emerging economies, plus the yen’s appreciation and drops in stock prices since the turn of the year, pessimism has been growing stronger over business prospects. Slackening domestic consumption is also behind the weak index reading. It is no wonder that the current business sentiment showed a retreat. 新興国経済の減速や、年初からの円高・株安を受けて、今後の業績を不安視する見方が強まっている。国内消費が力強さを欠いていることも響いた。足元の景況感が後退するのも、無理はない。It is a matter of concern that the index looking three months ahead shows a further deterioration in business sentiment. 問題は、３か月後を予想した先行きの指数が、景況感の一段の悪化を示していることである。The assumed exchange rate on which this forecast is based is ¥117.00-99 to the U.S. dollar, about ¥5 weaker than the current level. If the current strength of the yen continues, corporate performance will further deteriorate. この予想の前提となる想定為替レートは、現在より５円ほど円安の１ドル＝１１７円台だ。現在の円高水準が続けば、企業業績はさらに厳しくなろう。To prevent an economic downturn, the government and the Bank of Japan must make all-out efforts to ensure economy-first policy management. 景気の下振れを回避するため、政府・日銀は、経済最優先の政策運営に万全を期すべきだ。It is worrying that no growth engine can be found to drive the global economy following the slowdown of the Chinese economy. 中国経済が減速したため、世界経済の成長エンジンが見当たらないのは心配である。Abe’s leadership testedDuring a meeting with U.S. President Barack Obama in Washington on Thursday, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that the Group of Seven major countries “must lead the global economy for a certain period of time.” 安倍首相は日米首脳会談で、「しばらくはＧ７（先進７か国）が世界経済を牽引けんいんしていかなければならない」と指摘した。It is essential for Japan, the United States and Europe to pull together and mobilize all possible policy tools such as structural reform and fiscal stimulus measures. 日米欧が連携し、構造改革や財政出動などの政策手段を総動員することが欠かせない。At the Ise-Shima G-7 summit in Mie Prefecture set for May, Abe will be required as chair of the meeting to take the leadership in coming up with practical cooperative policies. 首相には、議長を務める５月の主要国首脳会議（伊勢志摩サミット）で、実効性のある協調政策の取りまとめに、指導力を発揮することが求められる。It is also necessary to deal with the capital flight back to developed countries, which is a factor behind the turmoil in emerging economies. A common understanding must be forged so that a hasty hike in U.S. interest rates will not cause further damage to emerging economies. 新興国経済の混乱要因である先進国への資金逆流にも、目配りが要る。米国の性急な利上げが新興国に追い打ちをかけないよう、認識をしっかり共有したい。The latest Tankan survey shows that plant and equipment investments by major firms likely grew considerably in fiscal 2015, which ended on March 31. This is a favorable factor for realizing growth led by the private sector. 今回の短観では、２０１５年度の大企業の設備投資が、大幅に伸びる見通しとなった。民需主導の成長実現へ、明るい材料だ。However, ordinary corporate profits are expected to decline in fiscal 2016. Amid the likely prospect that corporate achievements will hit a ceiling, businesses will be put to the test as to whether they can maintain their willingness to invest. ただし、１６年度の経常利益は減益の予想だ。業績頭打ちが見込まれる中、企業が投資意欲を持続できるかどうかが問われる。Firms continue to face a serious lack of manpower, so it is important for them to achieve labor saving and enhance productivity. Top corporate executives should not hesitate to make advance investments to realize new growth. 企業の「人手不足感」は引き続き強く、省力化や生産性向上の重要性は大きい。経営者は、新たな成長への先行投資を、ためらわないでもらいたい。Policy assistance is also important to give forward-looking firms a supportive push. The government must expedite efforts to ramp up growth strategies by more quickly lowering the effective corporate tax rates and abolishing regulations hindering the market participation of new corporate entrants. 政策的な支援で、前向きな企業の背中を押すことも大事だ。政府は、法人税実効税率の引き下げペースの加速や、企業の新規参入を阻む規制の撤廃など、成長戦略の強化を急がねばならない。(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 2, 2016)
Apr 3, 2016
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What I said in Tokyo by Prof. Krugman
What I said in Tokyo by Prof. KrugmanAftermath (no, I don't enjoy this sort of thing): https://www.gc.cuny.edu/CUNY_GC/media/LISCenter/pkrugman/Meeting-minutes-Krugman.pdf …いかにもアメリカ人らしい気質です。会合の情報は機密扱いでなされると思いきや、クルーグマン教授、会議の記録メモを、全文、twitterで公開しました。ドイツ出発前に、秘密を暴露された安倍首相、困惑しているでしょう。それには理由があります。クルーグマン教授、へそを曲げたのでなないでしょうか。麻生さんは戦争でもする気でしょうか。（発言内容）あいかわらずあほうで、笑ってしまいました。この資料造りに、３時間ほどかかりました。ポール・クルーグマン Paul Krugman日本の政府筋 officials との会合。2016年3月22日http://srachai.dreamlog.jp/archives/5248042.html
Apr 2, 2016
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秘密と国会 追認機関ではいけない
--The Asahi Shimbun, March 31EDITORIAL: Watchdogs of state secrets designations fail in first reports（社説）秘密と国会 追認機関ではいけないThe Board of Oversight and Review of Specially Designated Secrets of both Diet houses on March 30 submitted their first annual reports to the president of the Upper House and the speaker of the Lower House. 特定秘密の指定や解除の運用をチェックする衆参両院の「情報監視審査会」がきのう、年次報告書を衆参両院の議長に提出した。The boards are tasked with checking the designation and declassification of state secrets by the government under the state secrets protection law, which came into force at the end of 2014.２０１４年末に特定秘密保護法が施行されて以来、初めての報告書である。Sadly, the documents indicate the watchdogs have done a poor job of monitoring the government’s moves to classify or declassify specific information. They can hardly claim to have carried out their responsibilities as the Diet organs consisting of lawmakers representing the people. しかし残念ながら、「監視」の名に値する内容とは程遠かった。これでは国民の代表としての国会の責任が果たせたとは、到底言えない。The boards examined a total of 382 cases in which 10 government organizations, including the defense and foreign ministries, designated about 189,000 pieces of information as state secrets. To carry out their tasks, the panels referred to related documents, including a record book about the designation of specific pieces of information as state secrets, in addition to interviewing officials of the 10 organizations. 防衛省や外務省など１０行政機関が指定した特定秘密３８２件（約１８万９千点）について、概要を記した「特定秘密指定管理簿」などをもとに、各省庁から聞き取りして確認した。But only a few pieces of classified information have been disclosed as a result of the boards’ efforts. Most of the accounts about classification contained in the record book submitted by the government are too vague to help the boards judge whether the designation was appropriate or not.One typical description about classified information in the document is “information provided by a foreign country.” だが、開示された特定秘密は数点だけ。政府が提出した管理簿の記述は「外国から提供を受けた情報」などあいまいで、指定が適正かどうか判断できる内容ではなかった。The biggest problem is the flawed secrecy law itself, which doesn’t clarify the criteria for classification and could allow arbitrary and capricious withholding of information by the government. 最大の問題は、何が秘密にあたるかが秘密、その範囲が恣意（しい）的に広がりかねないという、秘密法それ自体にある。The opposition parties demanded that the government be mandated to submit information about designated secrets to the Diet. But the ruling coalition led by the Liberal Democratic Party rejected the demand, saying the government’s administrative power should be respected from the viewpoint of separation of powers. 野党側は国会への情報提供を義務づけるよう求めたが、与党側は「三権分立の観点から行政権を侵してはならない」と受け入れなかった。Why, then, did the ruling camp agree to set up secrecy watchdogs within the Diet?ならばなぜ国会に監視機関を置いたのか。The checks and balances system based on separation of powers requires the legislature to monitor and check the actions of the administrative branch of the government. 三権分立だからこそ、行政権をもつ政府に対する、国会の監視機能が重要なのだ。The watchdogs are the only institutions that can monitor the implementation of the state secrets law from outside the government.政府の外から特定秘密の運用を監視できるのは、唯一、国会の審査会だけである。The Diet should be alarmed by the situation and take steps to enhance the capabilities of the monitoring bodies.国会は強い危機意識をもち、監視機能の強化をはからねばならない。What is especially disappointing is the boards’ failure to make any judgment about the government’s decisions to classify specific information. Instead, the bodies only called for improvements in the way the law was implemented as their “opinions.” 審査会の対応で物足りなかったのは、政府の特定秘密の指定状況が適正かの判断に踏み込まず、運用改善を「意見」として求めるにとどめたことだ。It is hard to think of any good reason why they didn’t admonish the government to mend its way.より強い「勧告」になぜ踏み込まなかったのか。Even so, the boards’ “opinions” contain some ideas worth serious consideration. 一方で、「意見」の中身には耳を傾けるべきものもある。For example, they proposed that the Cabinet Office’s inspector general for public records management, who is responsible for reporting on the appropriateness of classification to the prime minister, should also report to them. The government should give serious thought to this proposal. 例えば、秘密指定が適正かどうか、首相に報告する内閣府の「独立公文書管理監」に対し、審査会にも報告するよう求めたことだ。政府は真剣に検討してもらいたい。The new national security legislation took effect on March 29, giving the government more power and discretion to take policy actions concerning the deployment of the Self-Defense Forces and other issues. 安全保障法制が施行され、自衛隊の運用など安保政策をめぐる政府の裁量の幅が広がった。If the secrecy watchdogs lack the teeth needed to properly monitor the way the secrecy law is implemented, the government could make a wide range of arbitrary decisions without knowledge of the people.そのうえ特定秘密への監視機能の弱さが放置されれば、国民の目の届かないところで、政府の恣意的な判断が際限なく広がる恐れがぬぐえない。The Diet needs to recognize its responsibility to monitor the government’s actions in this respect as the representative of the public and make constant efforts to improve the implementation of the law and rectify its problems. Such efforts would put necessary pressure on the government. 国会が「国民の代表として監視する」という責任を自覚し、運用改善と法改正に向けた検討を不断に重ねることが、政府に緊張感を持たせるはずだ。The boards must not become watchdogs in name only that merely rubber-stamp the government’s decisions. 形ばかりの監視で、政府の追認機関になってはならない。
Apr 1, 2016
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