- 14 Mar 2002
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Unless you've spent the past few days in the deep Amazon rain forest or had to finish a super-urgent tax report, you might be aware of the fact that Tokyo has been chosen to host the Summer Olympics in 2020. While my initial reaction was total surprise, I am still not sure what to make of it. It's definitely an enormous chance for Japan to present itself as a confident and resilient nation on the way to normalisation - in the wake of the nuclear disaster in Fukushima and in the light of scores of territorial spats with its neighbours as well as social and economic problems to tackle at home.
Will the Games and the expected influx of visitors from all over the world contribute to the government's and TEPCO's efforts to finally deal with the consequences of the nuclear disaster in Fukushima in earnest? Will the Games bring sufficient economic impetus to overcome decades of economic recession and stagnation?
Many commentators argue that the financial means allocated to improving and creating the necessary infrastructure for the Olympics were better spent on the clean-up of Fukushima and the reconstruction of the disaster-stricken areas of Tohoku, where evacuees still live in makeshift shelters. Also, I wonder how Mr Abe's comment on Tokyo's safety from the nuclear radiation resonates with the residents of Fukushima.
Anyhow, I would like to know how our members think about Tokyo 2020? If you take the poll, please explain your views in the thread.
Other reactions:
- China already handing out advice: China: 2020 Olympic success will depend on how Japan faces its history
- Related to Istanbul's unsuccessful bid? Japanese tourist stabbed to death in Turkey
Will the Games and the expected influx of visitors from all over the world contribute to the government's and TEPCO's efforts to finally deal with the consequences of the nuclear disaster in Fukushima in earnest? Will the Games bring sufficient economic impetus to overcome decades of economic recession and stagnation?
Many commentators argue that the financial means allocated to improving and creating the necessary infrastructure for the Olympics were better spent on the clean-up of Fukushima and the reconstruction of the disaster-stricken areas of Tohoku, where evacuees still live in makeshift shelters. Also, I wonder how Mr Abe's comment on Tokyo's safety from the nuclear radiation resonates with the residents of Fukushima.
Anyhow, I would like to know how our members think about Tokyo 2020? If you take the poll, please explain your views in the thread.
Other reactions:
- China already handing out advice: China: 2020 Olympic success will depend on how Japan faces its history
- Related to Istanbul's unsuccessful bid? Japanese tourist stabbed to death in Turkey