As of 1 October 2003, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, established in 1974 as a “special public institution” of the Government, turns into an “independent administrative institution” as part of Japan’s administrative reform. The new JICA will strive for further increased effectiveness and accountability.

JICA’s Four(4) main pillars as an Independent Administrative Institution
Ms. Sadako Ogata, JICA’s President

1. Aiming at more result-oriented approach and enhanced efficiency
To make our work more cost-effective, we will take drastic measures in revising our methods and organizational system.

2. Enhancing transparency for the administration and activities:
We are ready to publicize progress reports and evaluation of various projects in the efforts of making JICA’s administration” open for all to see”.

3. Promoting public participation:
We will cooperate with local governments, NGOs and academics, to promote international cooperation on citizen level through projects such as “Grassroots” technical cooperation or dispatch of volunteers.

4. Intensifying assistance for peace-building and post-conflict
With the experience in supporting Cambodia and Afghanistan, we will be increasingly active in carrying out post-conflict reconstruction and development assistance, from the viewpoints of peace-building and conflict prevention.