Online Event: Japan’s Response to Covid-19 and Potential Lessons Learned for Latin America

Japan’s pandemic response is worth studying. The government reacted early and proactively to contain the virus’ initial spread, and the general population’s commitments to personal health and hygiene have continued to limit disease transmission. Patients in need have been consistently served by the country’s national health insurance system, efficient public health administration, and advanced clinical capacities. Japan has controlled the pandemic even despite its unusually aged society and high urban population concentration, providing a template for other countries assembling disease responses.

Now at the epicenter of the global pandemic, Latin America could benefit from Japan’s insights on handling Covid-19. Well-coordinated Covid-19 responses are medically, strategically, economically, and politically crucial to governments grappling with pandemic fallout. Looking to share expertise, the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is already aiding low- and middle-income countries’ efforts to build resilient, inclusive healthcare systems and societies.

During this event, JICA Vice President Dr. Takao Toda will outline the key tenets of Japan’s response to the pandemic, and an expert panel will address potential takeaways from Latin America. The panel will include Michael Green, CSIS Senior Vice President for Asia and holds the CSIS Japan Chair, as well as Katie Taylor, Executive Director for the Pan-American Development Foundation.
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