## (3) Support for Democratization

Reinforcing the democratic foundations in developing countries will promote greater public participation in governance and development and the protection of human rights. As such, democratization is an extremely important factor in achieving medium- to long-term stability and development. Since the end of the Cold War, many countries have been endeavoring to introduce democratic institutions together with market principles. It is important to support these efforts and work toward the reinforcement of democracy.

Japan’s support for democratization includes such activities as the acceptance of trainees, the organization of seminars, and the provision of personnel, and financial assistance for domestic elections in developing countries. $ ^{13} $

In light of the above, Japan will provide the following forms of support.

— Japan will actively provide the following types of support to countries pursuing democratization and market-oriented economic reforms: support for the improvement of administrative management capabilities; support for the development of developing institutions and policies pertaining to democratization and the introduction of market principles; human resources development; participatory development; and support for public elections.

— In view of the unique features of the fundamental transformations engendered by the political process of democratization and introduction of market principles, Japan will pay due attention to the political systems, the social and economic conditions, and the historical backgrounds of individual countries.

### 4. Responding to Global Issues

## (I) Environmental Conservation

Environmental problems such as global warming may threaten the very existence of mankind. In many developing countries, environmental problems are now jeopardizing the foundations of development. Environmental problems include serious environmental pollution as a result of the process of economic growth and rapid degradation of the natural environment as a result of population growth and poverty. These problems pose challenges that call for a global, coordinated response. DAC's Development Partnership Strategy contains concrete goals for formulating national strategies for environmental conservation and reversing the depletion of environmental resources.

Global environmental problems have been assigned the highest priority in Japan’s diplomatic agenda. $ ^{14} $ Through its own experiences, Japan has learned much about developing technologies for pollution control to achieve economic growth while preserving the environment. Both Japan’s experiences and technologies can play a significant role in promoting social and economic development and in achieving sustainable development in developing countries. Japan will support the environmental programs and efforts of developing countries and assist in the enhancement of their environmental capacities. Moreover, cooperation and collaboration with local governments and NGOs on issues regarding environmental conservation will be of vital importance.

In light of the above, Japan will provide the following forms of support.

— In accordance with the basic principles and action program of the “Initiatives for Sustainable Development toward the 21st