On 9 March 2022, Governor Taizo Mikazuki held a press conference in Otsu City, wherein he announced that he would “accept refugees in Shiga from Ukraine due to the Russian invasion. The prefecture is prepared for acceptance at the Japan Center for Michigan Universities (JCMU) in Hikone City… so that if there is a request for evacuation, [the prefectural government] will be able to respond promptly.”
The governor also told the press that, “The international community needs to respond in solidarity and in a humane manner, and the prefecture will also establish a system.”
As members of a larger international community built on peace and friendship between nations and cultures, the JCMU administration in both Shiga Prefecture and Michigan fully support Governor Mikazuki’s endeavor. JCMU’s study abroad programs have been on hold since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so the living/learning Center has been underutilized. As it is anticipated that JCMU’s regular Japanese Language & Culture study abroad program will resume in September 2022, JCMU will likely serve as a temporary site for refugees who might arrive in Japan before the fall semester begins, providing them safe haven while they wait to move to more permanent accommodations.
This is a new development at JCMU, and details will emerge as Japan’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine unfolds. More information will be posted when it becomes available.
Additional Sources (Japanese):
Yomiuri Shimbun: https://www.yomiuri.co.jp/local/shiga/news/20220309-OYTNT50200/
Chunichi Shimbun: https://www.chunichi.co.jp/article/431978