We continue to support foreign parents who cannot see their children

APFS began supporting foreign parents who are unable to meet their children after holding a press conference at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan in August 2011. Foreign fathers and mothers from five countries - Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Burma, Mali, and Tunisia - are working hard every day to be able to meet their children.

On Wednesday, November 30, 2011, APFS held a strategy meeting with Left Behind Parents Japan (LBPJ), a group of people with disabilities mainly from Europe and the United States. A total of 20 participants from 13 countries, including APFS and LBPJ, gathered. It was an unprecedented and very global gathering covering all continents, including America, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Africa. APFS Representative Director Kato acted as facilitator.

At the beginning of the meeting, a workshop was held using a world map, and everyone was able to share which countries everyone was from. Afterwards, the participants introduced themselves. Some of the participants were moved to tears as they recalled the painful experience of not being able to see their children. It was impressive to see the participants encouraging each other, regardless of nationality. After that, a future action plan was formulated. Future activities include an appeal in front of the Ministry of Justice, holding a study session at the National Diet, signature campaigns, and parades.
On Sunday, December 13, 2011, the parties met again to discuss the contents of the Policy Statement. The contents can be viewed at the following URL (Tokyo Shimbun website).
http://www.tokyo-np.co.jp/article/national/news/CK2011121502000193.html

APFS also accepts consultations from foreign parents who are unable to meet their children at any time. Consultations require a reservation. If you would like to consult, please contact the APFS office at 03-3964-8739.
We appreciate your support and cooperation.