Q&A Stage 1 Hiroshima

Questions to LoI of the Hiroshima Team:
=== Air quality in the venue ===
Related to COVID safety: What are the air quality facilities in the venue?
Specifically:
- Are there CO2 monitors?
- What kind of air purifying is in the indoor areas of the venue? Filtering, UV?
Ivansanchez (talk) 01:53, 26 February 2024 (PST)
==== Answer from Hiroshima LOC ====
Thank you for your Question. Hiroshima LOC answer is below
===== Are there CO2 monitors? =====
: Unfortunately, we do not have CO2 monitors installed at the venue. However, if there is a significant demand, we are open to considering the installation of such devices in coordination with the venue. Additionally, it's worth noting that Eukarya Inc., led by our co-chair Tamura as CEO, has been developing software for monitoring CO2 levels in meeting rooms using FOSS4G's Re:Earth platform. We may explore the possibility of utilizing these developments for the conference. 
===== What kind of air purifying is in the indoor areas of the venue? Filtering, UV? ===== 
: Unfortunately, there are no air purifiers installed. But, The Venue incorporates an external air ventilation system in its conference rooms. This system ensures the circulation of fresh air throughout the facility. Along with these installed systems, manual ventilation practices are also employed as necessary, including in common areas like lobbies and in individual conference rooms. Japan’s laws, including the Air Pollution Control Law and Building Sanitation Act ensure good air quality in public places, event venues, and inside buildings. To enhance safety, room capacities may be adjusted. Measures against COVID-19 are taken seriously, with regular disinfection of commonly touched surfaces and equipment. 
iwasaki 29 February 2024 (UTC)
=== Diversity and Inclusion ===
We kindly ask for a statement about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in your country.
What is the legal status of same-gender relationships and/or marriage in your country? Can our members travel safely with their same sex partner? What about transgender members, are they safe?
How safe is for a woman to travel alone in your country?
Is your venue accessible for wheelchairs and other disabilities?
==== Answer from Hiroshima LOC ====
===== We kindly ask for a statement about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in your country. ===== 
: In Japan, there is a growing emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) at both the corporate and organizational levels, with various initiatives being led by the government. These efforts aim to provide equal opportunities regardless of gender, nationality, or disability. Despite this progress, challenges such as the Global Gender Gap Report, as indicated by Japan's low ranking in the global index, especially Economic Participation and Opportunity and Political Empowerment. The Hiroshima LOC is proactively incorporating DE&I into its operations and event content, striving to enhance DE&I awareness. Additionally, efforts are being made to expand access to open-source software technology for refugees and others previously hindered by diverse circumstances.　 
===== What is the legal status of same sex relationships and/or marriage in your country? Can our members travel safely with their same sex partner? What about transgender members, are they safe? ===== 
: In Japan, same-gender marriage is not legally recognized, but there is no legal penalty for same-gender relationships, ensuring that same-gender partners and transgender members can travel safely. Furthermore, some municipalities, including Hiroshima city, the proposed venue city, issue partnership certificates that provide treatment similar to marriage (in Japanese). Additionally, with the recent laws enacted to promote understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, there is a growing awareness and acceptance, contributing to the safety and comfort of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or relationship status. (Wikipedia link, in Japanese)　
===== How safe is for a woman to travel alone in your country? ===== 
: Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, and there is no significant danger for women traveling alone. It ranks 9th on the Global Peace Index by the Institute for Economics & Peace, reflecting its low incidence of crime and accidents for all individuals, regardless of gender. While risks are minimal, it is still advisable to take basic safety precautions. Additionally, Japan is prone to natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons, and we plan to provide information on safety measures at the venue and for travelers. 
===== Is your venue accessible for wheelchairs and other disabilities? ===== 
: The Hiroshima International Conference Center, our proposed venue, is equipped to accommodate individuals with wheelchairs and other disabilities. Elevators are available for movement within the building, and we have prepared three wheelchairs for loan at both the B1F and 1F entrances. Regarding another facility, multi-purpose restrooms, including facilities for ostomates, are installed on the B2F, and each restroom is equipped with detachable children's toilet seats.　
iwasaki 29, February 2024.
=== Postpone to the coming year ===
Are there any possibilities of holding the conference the following year or are there any specific reasons why you would prefer 2025?
Luca Delucchi, 29 February 2024 (CET)
==== Answer from Hiroshima LOC ====
: We firmly believes that 2025 is the pivotal year for hosting FOSS4G, for reasons detailed below. 
* It marks the 80th memorial year of the Hiroshima atomic bombing, a somber commemoration that underscores the importance of geospatial technology for peace. This memorial year serves as a poignant reminder of the need for global cooperation and the vital role of open-source technology in achieving it.
* Our sponsor candidate, Eukarya Inc., has earmarked funds specifically for 2025, aligning with the budgetary plans for this significant year.
* We intend to leverage the alignment with the Osaka Expo to allow attendees to gain additional cultural and technological insights, enhancing the conference experience.
: Delaying to a subsequent year would not only misalign with these critical thematic and financial plans but also diminish the potential for a powerful and resonant message that 2025 uniquely offers.
Nobusuke Iwasaki, 29 February 2024 (UTC)
=== Errata ===
We apologize, the link to the Global Peace Index in the section "How safe is for a woman to travel alone in your country?" was incorrect. The correct link is https://www.economicsandpeace.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/GPI-2023-Web.pdf
Nobusuke Iwasaki, 4 March 2024 (UTC)