We, the Japanese social workers who belong to the Japanese Coordinating Body for IFSW (International Federation of Social Workers), make the following statement, based on the values and ethics of social work as well as the Pacifism that Japan has espoused for the past several decades.
We feel strong indignation over the recent loss of so many lives of ordinary citizens including children and women in Gaza. These atrocities can never be excused from any standpoint. We as social workers, not taking sides but aspiring peace from the bottom of our hearts, declare that any battle for one’s own interests alone should be brought to an end immediately.