Japan Reviews Simplification of Tokyo Olympics Postponed One Year Due to COVID-19

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunjin Jung] The Japanese government is considering measures to reduce costs and simplify the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, which were postponed due to the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

According to NHK and other sources on the 4th, Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo, told reporters on the day, "We are trying to rationalize and simplify (the Olympics) in coordination with the government and the organizing committee," adding, "It is necessary to gain the sympathy and understanding of the public."

The rationalization and simplification mentioned by Governor Koike means an effort to reduce additional costs caused by the postponement of the Games, and methods such as reducing ceremonies or limiting visits by foreign guests are being considered. On the same day, the Yomiuri Shimbun reported, citing multiple government and organizing committee officials, that reductions in stadium spectators, participants in the opening and closing ceremonies, and ceremonies themselves are being considered.

Regarding this, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said at a regular morning briefing, "I am aware that reviews are being conducted mainly by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the organizing committee," but added, "No policy decisions have been made." He continued, "It is also very important to operate the Games safely for athletes and spectators," indicating that he would monitor the situation and discuss it with the IOC, the organizing committee, and Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has previously stated regarding the Tokyo Olympics that "we will hold it in its complete form." Prime Minister Abe explained that holding the Olympics in complete form means that athletes can participate under thorough preparation, and that the scale will not be reduced, allowing spectators to share the excitement.

However, there are ongoing remarks that the development of a COVID-19 vaccine is essential for the Olympics to be held in complete form. In response, Minister Suga said, "As far as I know, the IOC and the organizing committee do not make vaccine development a condition for holding the Games." Earlier, IOC President Thomas Bach stated in an interview with the BBC on the 21st of last month that if the Tokyo Olympics are not held next summer, they will be canceled without further postponement.