In January, I had the privilege of participating in the Japanese Study Tour, a unique opportunity coordinated by the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations & Japanese Centre for Local Government in London.
This incredible journey delved into the intricate processes of reconstruction and recovery following the 2011 great earthquake—a pivotal moment that sparked a profound comparison between Japanese and UK governance systems.
Our expedition commenced in Tokyo before whisking us away via the Bullet Train to Fukushima Prefecture in central Japan.
There, we were immersed in a comprehensive overview of the Prefecture's reconstruction and recovery efforts, followed by an enlightening discussion led by the Mayor of Motomiya. His account of tireless governmental efforts to rebuild the city post-earthquake and nuclear disaster ignited my curiosity about the applicability of Japan's model of ‘Strong Leadership’ within the UK context.
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