On Friday, the Japanese government assured to share information with local authorities “to the extent possible.” This decision follows significant anger in Okinawa. Over the central government’s failure to report alleged sexual assault cases involving U.S. military personnel stationed in the region.
Addressing Recent Incidents
The Japanese Foreign Ministry’s top official, Masataka Okano, gave a statement. He said that the central government will discuss this issue with the U.S. government. And implement concrete measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. This statement comes after recent prosecutions and arrests of U.S. military members for sex-related crimes in Okinawa.
U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, met with Okano on Friday. He expressed deep worry about the new charges against American service men. Emanuel committed to working closely with Japan to ensure that U.S. service members maintain the high standards of conduct.
Recent Cases Spark Outrage
Two incidents revealed in late June have sparked outrage in Okinawa. The first case involves a U.S. Air Force serviceman indicted in March for allegedly kidnapping and sexually assaulting a minor. The second case involves a U.S. Marine arrested in May. On suspicion of attempted rape resulting in injury. These cases were brought to light through local media reporting.
Local police did not disclose these incidents. By citing the need to protect the victims’ privacy. The Japanese Foreign Ministry was aware of the cases. But refrained from providing the information to the Okinawa prefectural government. Thus respecting the police’s decision.
Government’s Response and Policy Changes
At a press conference on Friday, Japan’s top government spokesman, Yoshimasa Hayashi, talked about the need to quickly share information. About the crimes involving U.S. military members in Okinawa. This is important because Okinawa has many U.S. military bases.
Starting now, the government will tell local officials about any crimes committed by U.S. military members. They will always share this information and provide as many details as possible while protecting the victims’ privacy.
Hayashi said the information would be shared after the police finish investigating. First, the police will give the information to the Foreign Ministry. Which will then give it to the Defense Ministry before informing the local government. Hayashi warned that this process could stop if the information is not handled properly.
Reactions from Okinawa
Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki welcomed the central government’s announcement. By calling it as “a step forward.” He expressed hope that this new policy would lead to better cooperation. And transparency between the central government and local authorities. Crimes committed by U.S. service members and nonmilitary personnel have been a constant source of problems for locals. Thus contributing to long-standing tensions in the region.
Commitment to Change from the U.S.
After meeting with Okano, Emanuel spoke to reporters. He said that the United States and its armed forces need to improve. Emanuel admitted that the current training and education for U.S. service members aren’t good enough. He said, “What we’re doing now clearly isn’t working, so we need to change and update it.”
Emanuel expressed his hope of an upcoming security meeting between the two nations’ foreign and defense ministers. This is likely to take place in Tokyo. Which will provide an opportunity to make reforms to both training and education of personnels . And establish transparency within the community.
Addressing Challenges with the U.S. Military in Okinawa
Recently, there were serious problems involving U.S. military members in Okinawa. The Japanese government promises to do a better job of sharing information about such incidents with local authorities. The U.S. government also agrees that they need to improve the training and education of their military personnel. By working together, both governments hope to create a safer environment. And improve the relationship between the U.S. military and the people living in Okinawa.
