it is strict in its handling of fraudulent business with foreign government parties, including the application of the Unfair Competition Prevention Law, in order to ensure trust toward ODA projects which use taxpayers' money as their main resource.

Improprieties were revealed in ODA loan projects in Viet Nam, and in 2008 the concerned parties in Japan were prosecuted and convicted. In consideration of the aforementioned incident, an exploratory committee was established under the Foreign Minister and formed of external advisors in order to conduct deliberations aimed at preventing the reoccurrence of similar fraud and corruption cases. The committee submitted its report in September 2009. Based on this report, a variety of initiatives were implemented, with these initiatives having been compiled in October 2010. These include overhauling measures and regulations by MOFA and JICA for companies that have engaged in fraudulent acts, establishing a support structure for overseas Japanese affiliate companies through embassies and JICA's local offices, and appeals encouraging compliance with laws and ordinances from related businesses. Other initiatives include holding seminars concerning international contract terms and conditions for Japanese companies through the cooperation of industry associations, enhancing JICA's involvement during the selection of consultants by partner countries, and holding discussions on the prevention of fraud and corruption with other donor countries.

## (4) Securing the Safety of Personnel Engaged in Development Assistance

Security situations in developing countries where ODA personnel are involved in development operations vary considerably and change constantly. In addition, since the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001, tensions in the Middle East and South Asia have increased and frequent global terrorist activities still exist as well. In peacebuilding activities, how to safeguard ODA personnel has become a considerably critical issue.

Japan examines the domestic security situation in the country through mainly Japanese embassies, provides travel information, and exchanges and shares information among people engaging in ODA. JICA takes measures such as providing particular training and seminars before they leave Japan, ensuring means of communication in emergency situations in the destination, deploying safety officers (Note 45), and installing security equipment in the living quarters of ODA personnel. In addition, JICA prepares security manuals tailored to the security conditions of the various countries and regions by exchanging information with Japanese embassies and local offices of international organizations, and it implements other appropriate and timely security measures. In addition, efforts are being made to enhance safety, as joint training for emergency and risk management is conducted with JICA and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). In terms of grant aid, JICA provides information for consultants and construction contractors, while also improving the system for communication during emergencies. As for loan aid, efforts are made to ensure the safety of Japanese corporations that take on projects through such measures such as the provision of information.