The “3rd ASEAN-G7 Next Leaders Forum” was held.

　The Ministry of Justice of Japan convened the “3rd ASEAN-G7 Next Leaders Forum” in Chiba from 15 to 18 September 2026.
 
　The Forum was established by the initiative of Japan at the ASEAN-G7 Justice Ministers’ Interface held in 2023, as a platform where young government officials in the field of law and justice from both ASEAN and the G7 can build long-lasting relationship of trust and cooperation, while deepening their understanding of the rule of law. The Forum was held for the third time.
 
　At the opening ceremony, Mr. FUKUYAMA Mamoru, then Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Justice, delivered opening remarks. A video message from H.E. Nararya S. Soeprapto, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN, was also shown, expressing expectations for further exchanges and cooperation among participants through the Forum.

　Lectures were given to participants by Ms. Ivy Soh of the Singapore Prison Service, Ministry of Home Affairs of Singapore, Mr. NAGAI Yosuke, Founder and Executive Director of Accept International, and Mr. OYA Toshio, Representative Director and Deputy Governor of Japan Bank for International Cooperation. The lectures focused on experiences in human resource development and organizational management in the criminal justice field, practical approaches to conflict prevention and social challenges, and organizational management in international institutions, respectively.

　Throughout the group discussions held over the entire programme, participants exchanged views on what we can do for individuals facing multiple and complex challenges under the rule of law. At the conclusion of the discussions, participants provided presentations on their outcomes.

　In order to deepen participants’ insight into Japan’s initiatives in the field of law and justice, participants visited an offender rehabilitation facility.

　At the closing ceremony, certificates were handed to all participants by Mr. KAWABUCHI Takehiko, the Director of the International Affairs Division, Minister's Secretariat, Ministry of Justice of Japan.