Prime Minister Takaichi Appeals for Stability in Middle Eastern Straits at Manama Dialogue and Calls for Support at Start of Crime Victims Month

Key points

On November 1, 2026, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi delivered Japan's first-ever video message by a sitting prime minister to the international conference "Manama Dialogue" held in Manama, Bahrain, in the Middle East. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of promptly restoring stability in the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, vital maritime chokepoints, and expressed Japan's commitment to working with the international community to ensure free and safe navigation. On the same day, Crime Victims Week, previously observed for one week, was expanded to a month-long Crime Victims Month, during which the Prime Minister called for increased support for victims in a video message. [1] [3] [4]

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Video Message to the International Conference

On November 1, 2026, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi delivered Japan's first video message by a sitting prime minister to the "Manama Dialogue," an international conference held in Manama, the capital of Bahrain in the Middle East. The Prime Minister stressed the urgent need to restore stability in the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, critical maritime routes, and demonstrated Japan's determination to collaborate with the international community to ensure free and safe navigation. She also called for promoting cooperation in advanced technology fields, including artificial intelligence. This marked the first time a Japanese prime minister has sent a message to this conference. [1]

The Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait are important shipping routes in the Middle East. Given the prolonged instability in the region, restoring stability in these straits is essential for international security and economic stability. Prime Minister Takaichi positions securing freedom and safety of navigation, in cooperation with Gulf countries and the international community, as a key diplomatic priority for Japan. This also aims to strengthen Japan's international role. The use of video messages is noted as an effective diplomatic tool when on-site visits are difficult. [1]

Start and Significance of Crime Victims Month

From November 1, 2026, Crime Victims Week, which was previously observed for one week from November 25 to December 1, was expanded to a month-long Crime Victims Month based on the government's Fifth Basic Plan for Crime Victims and Others. The period runs from November 1 to December 1, totaling 31 days, with the purpose of deepening public understanding and support for crime victims and their families. This expansion is the first of its kind, aiming to strengthen public awareness and establish support measures. The National Police Agency will hold awareness events during the month, and support activities will be conducted at the community level. [3]

Crime Victims Week was first established in 2005 (Heisei 17), with December 1, the date of the enactment of the Basic Act on Crime Victims, as its final day. The transition to a month-long observance aims to secure sufficient time for public awareness activities, promote understanding among the public, and foster a supportive social atmosphere. Local governments are also encouraged to implement support initiatives tailored to regional circumstances. The activities during the month, such as event numbers and slogan contests, will be quantified and evaluated to measure effectiveness. This is expected to enhance social recognition of support for crime victims. [3]

Prime Minister Takaichi's Message on Support for Crime Victims and Specific Measures

At the start of Crime Victims Month, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi issued a video message expressing solidarity with crime victims and their families. She stated, "Crime suddenly takes away precious lives and daily life, causing various hardships for victims and their families." She promoted the support slogan "I too can provide support here," encouraging the public to offer accessible assistance. The message is also posted on the official Prime Minister's Office website. Specific measures introduced include the operation of a multi-agency one-stop service system aimed at reducing procedural and psychological burdens on victims. [3] [4]

Specific support measures include the nationwide establishment of a multi-agency one-stop service system from fiscal year 2024, where victims can consult a single agency and receive coordinated support from related organizations. Additionally, the introduction of victim identification cards and the promotion of a legal support system for crime victims and others are underway. This legal support system provides comprehensive early-stage legal assistance to victims who find it difficult to participate in criminal procedures due to physical or mental harm or financial hardship. These initiatives aim to enhance the support environment for victims. [3] [5]

Summary of Prime Minister Takaichi's Activities on November 1

On November 1, 2026, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's activities included delivering Japan's first video message to the international conference "Manama Dialogue" concerning Middle East affairs and issuing a video message marking the start of Crime Victims Month. These actions demonstrate the Prime Minister's active engagement with important domestic and international issues. She is showing leadership in both international security and domestic social welfare. Future developments in these areas will be closely watched. The Prime Minister's official website and the National Police Agency's public relations support these initiatives. [2]

The Prime Minister's use of video messages is an important communication tool to address diverse contemporary challenges. Video messages are effective in conveying policy intentions and stances even when direct visits are difficult, and are utilized in international conferences and domestic awareness campaigns. Prime Minister Takaichi's activities on November 1 symbolize a balanced approach to diplomacy and domestic policy. Such communication methods are expected to continue, facilitating the dissemination of messages to the public and the international community. [2]