This approach is unique among economic and social policy institutes in Germany. Yoshio Okabe Keizai Doyukai is a business forum where leading executives develop and propose economic and social initiatives for Japan at home and abroad. The association began a half-century ago as a private sector policy group for shaping Japan's postwar reconstruction. Today, Keizai Doyukai is a leading voice in the national debate about ways to revitalize the Japanese society through social and economic reform and international exchange. Keizai Doyukai comprises about 1,500 members from some 900 companies and remains rigorously non-partisan in framing policy proposals.
All members participate as individuals rather than as officers of their companies.
Membership, in other words, is entirely on the basis of intellectual merit and personal commitment. Members participate in specialized committees that conduct studies on subjects of economic and social importance. Keizai Doyukai members are also active participants in business forums around the globe. There are also some 40 independent local Doyukai across the nation which model their activities after Keizai Doyukai. Dr. Willem J. de Ridder SMO is an independent, non-profit organization established in 1968.