Japan’s PM Ishiba: “We must make it the norm to have spaces where people can interact with each other regardless of whether they have a disability”

By Barrier Free Japan, Extract from Kyodo via The Okinawa Times

May 30 2025

TOKYO – On the 30th, the government held the first event to deepen understanding of people with disabilities, “Tomotomo Festa 2025,” at the State Guest House in Motoakasaka, Tokyo. People with disabilities have been involved since the planning stage, and the event is designed to be enjoyed by both people with and without disabilities, with the government hoping to make it a model for the future. Admission was free until the 31st.

Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, who attended the opening ceremony, said, “We must make it the norm to have spaces where people can interact with each other regardless of whether they have a disability or not.” He also visited a booth where participants could experience what it’s like to be unable to use their hands dexterity due to a disability, as well as a booth where participants could try out “e-Boccia,” a ball game that is controlled by eye contact.