Photo/Illutration Athletes who will take part in the Deaflympics gather with children in Tokyo. (Shota Tomonaga)

Each individual, regardless of nationality, age, gender or possible disability, proceeds along a different path in their irreplaceable lives.

In a society where all individuals’ existence resonates along the same horizon, new possibilities and discoveries are made and worlds are expanded through human relations that no amount of money can buy.

Such rich relationships help to foster an “inclusive society” where all people respect each other. It is one of the most important topics that any administration, regardless of framework, must tackle.

The prime minister, who leads the nation, holds the responsibility of standing at the forefront of that path and instilling social norms that are considered fair by all people irrespective of the situation they face.

But in her first Diet policy speech, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi gave no indication she would actively try to gain understanding from people who do not share her viewpoints. The coalition discussions between her Liberal Democratic Party and Nippon Ishin (Japan Innovation Party) also showed no signs of flexibility.

Instead, emphasis was placed on having the government deal resolutely with growing numbers of foreigners who are said to disobey rules or engage in illegal acts.

We recall the government, shortly after Tokyo was chosen as the host of the 2020 Paralympics, describing the event as an “excellent opportunity to make a major change in society.”

Years before the Tokyo Paralympics, the government compiled a plan to realize an inclusive society where everyone could enjoy lives full of energy. In such a society, people would place utmost importance on the human rights and dignity of others while supporting each other, regardless of disability, gender or age.

The plan was to cover all people, not just disabled individuals.

Various systemic revisions were adopted, and new systems were created.

For example, companies and a wide range of businesses were obligated to rationally consider removing barriers in society that limited the activities of disabled people.

Calls were made to increase understanding of dementia, while the spread of digital technology lowered barriers to communication.

The Deaflympics, an international sporting event for those who cannot hear or have hearing difficulties, will be held for the first time in Japan later this month.

We take to heart the words of one athlete who will compete.

“The term ‘inclusive society’ ordinarily would not need to be used. For me, it is only natural to have various people around me. Everyone has the right to live equally.”

This is something that should be kept in mind and emphasized beyond the competition.

While enjoying and admiring the athletes’ endeavors, we must also try to listen to people elsewhere who may have given up on a goal, take action and create new norms.

A more natural society will be created when everyone, including politicians, uses their ability to become more aware.

--The Asahi Shimbun, Nov. 3