#Japan #Tokyo #Nobukatsu Kanehara #Kazuhisa Hamaguchi #Seiron Awards

Seiron Awards 2023: Recognizing Leaders in Security and Management

The Fuji Sankei Group has recently announced the winners of the 41st Seiron Award and the 26th Seiron Fresh Wind Award during a meeting of the selection committee. These prestigious awards are given to individuals who embody the group's fundamental philosophy of "fighting for freedom and democracy." The Seiron Award is presented annually, while the Seiron Fresh Wind Award acknowledges emerging voices in the discourse community.

The recipients of this year’s awards are Nobukatsu Kanehara, the Executive Director of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, and Kazuhisa Hamaguchi, a specially appointed professor at Takushoku University. Kanehara (66 years old) has played a significant role in shaping Japan's post-war defense policy, particularly during the second Abe administration as Deputy Cabinet Secretary and Deputy Director of the National Security Bureau. His deep understanding of global historical contexts and extensive diplomatic experience have allowed him to engage in meaningful discourse at a time when Japan's security environment is increasingly challenging. His efforts to deepen national discussions have earned him the Seiron Award.

Nobukatsu Kanehara's Contributions

Kanehara's career is marked by his roles in various influential positions within the Japanese government, including serving as director of international law and chief of the Japan-US Security Treaty section. His tenure included significant contributions at the European Union, the United Nations, and in embassies around the world. Since retiring in October 2019, he has dedicated himself to deepening public understanding of security issues, making him a suitable recipient of the Seiron Award. His notable works include titles such as Introduction to Security for Japanese People and Lessons from History: The Essence of Failure and National Strategy. Currently, he serves as the Executive Director of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and a specially appointed professor at Reitaku University as of April 2025.

Kazuhisa Hamaguchi's Innovations in Disaster Management

On the other hand, Kazuhisa Hamaguchi (57 years old) has built a reputation for integrating practical crisis management with a focus on public safety from a unique perspective. His extensive hands-on experience in crisis management has enabled him to provide valuable insights and policy suggestions to local governments, particularly in disaster response. As Japan approaches the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2026, Hamaguchi's timely and practical recommendations contribute significantly to enhancing national safety awareness. He was recognized with the Seiron Fresh Wind Award for his efforts, showcasing his commitment to disaster education and management.

Hamaguchi's journey has seen him serve in the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and as a secretary to a former Prime Minister. His return to academia has allowed him to share his expertise broadly, positioning him as a pivotal voice in disaster education, notably through his works like Thinking about Disaster: Recommendations for Survival and Japan as a Risk Nation: Defense, Infectious Disease, and Disaster. He has also been actively writing for the Seiron column since December 2023.

Award Ceremony Details

The respective awards will be presented at a ceremony in March 2026, held at a hotel in Tokyo. The recipients will be honored with bronze sculptures designed by distinguished artists—Kanehara’s award includes the sculpture "Hishou," created by Sho-Shin Omo. In contrast, Hamaguchi will receive "Sonatine," designed by Ryoichi Kozutsumi. These awards celebrate their significant contributions to promoting national safety and fostering discussion around critical security issues in Japan, paving the way for future leaders in these vital sectors.