Projects and Activities
The Japan Local Government Centre is involved in many activities and events throughout each year as part of our efforts to support the development of international cooperation and economic exchange for Japanese local governments in nine European countries.
JLGC Seminar is an opportunity for knowledge exchange, shared learning and the creation of lasting links between Japan, Europe and their local and regional governments.
Japan Study Tour is an annual programme that promotes peer learning and professional ties between Japanese and European local governments. JLGC invites applications from senior-level staff of local authorities and associated bodies to join this seven-day study tour to learn about the current trends and challenges Japanese local governments face. Each year’s study tour focuses on the following:
- observing Japanese public management systems in-situ
- studying and discussing specific services in small group sessions
- investigating opportunities for building links through inward investment and professional collaboration
Multicultural Policy is promoted by CLAIR for local governments in Japan through data sharing, policy support and the dispatching of staff. In the UK this is facilitated through our newly-inaugurated Multicultural Communities Policy Exchange Programme, which enables Japanese professionals engaged in multicultural policy to visit their counterparts in UK local and regional government to learn in situ how support programmes for migrants are delivered overseas.
Economic Exchange by local governments in Japan takes place through JLGC’s participation in various public relations events throughout the year to support the efforts of Japanese prefectures and cities in regional promotion. Recent events have included the annual Japan Matsuri and Hyper Japan festivals in London and Japan-Tag in Düsseldorf, working with other Japan-related organisations such as the Embassy of Japan, Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO), Japan Foundation and Japan House London to promote links with Japan and its regions.
Survey and Research services for the internationalisation efforts of local governments in Japan are provided by JLGC, undertaking policy research on all aspects of local governance and regional development and supporting delegations and study visits within our responsible countries in Europe.
International Exchange through sister city relationships is supported by JLGC, promoting collaboration and interaction between Japanese local governments and their European counterparts through staff training and economic exchange, as well as civic, educational and cultural linked projects.
Japan Local Attraction Seminars showcase the unique charm of Japan’s local attractions and tourism initiatives, inviting UK travel agents, tour operators, destination marketing organisations, public sector partners, and Japan enthusiasts to explore the rich tapestry of Japan’s culture and destinations. This new series of online seminars, a collaboration between JLGC and local authorities in Japan, leverages the insights and experiences of JET Programme participants.
