On February 25, 2021, the Prime Minister attended an emergency forum for preventing loneliness and isolation, understanding anxiety and creating connections at the Prime Minister’s Office.

The Prime Minister said in his address,

 “Today, we heard from everyone here who works on the front lines providing counseling services and relevant support that, as our battle against the novel coronavirus is being prolonged, there are situations wherein maintaining bonds among people is becoming increasingly difficult. I once again recognized the severe situation facing those who suffer from loneliness and who are socially isolated.

Also, while there are various supports are being provided, I felt that some people are falling through the institutional gaps or do not have the means to find out that such assistance is available for them, and these factors make them feel more lonely and isolated.

My goal is to realize a society of kizuna (bonds), and it is vital that we build a society in which people can live while supporting and helping each other amid diverse bonds.

Now that we are facing the severe situation due to the novel coronavirus outbreak, it is more important than ever that the public and private sectors and fellow members of the private sector deepen their connections beyond their organizational barriers, and extend their support as a whole to those who are socially isolated and feeling unease.

We received very positive and powerful messages from everyone here today that there is a variety of support available, that we want people to know there is someone offering support for them, and that we will overcome this situation together. Using this forum as the catalyst, I intend to establish a liaison and coordination meeting between the relevant ministries and agencies, and for the Government to provide firm support under the leadership of Minister Sakamoto, to ensure the various supports reach the people who are suffering loneliness and who are isolated from society.

I sincerely ask the participants today to continue to provide support through their various initiatives.”