1. Introduction

Tokyo evolved into a world-leading megacity after going through the process of post-war reconstruction and then high growth. Now, two unprecedented waves of change are poised to engulf our city. In Tokyo, the population is estimated to start shrinking in 2025, and in this year the baby boomers will be at least 75 years old. In preparation for this epic turning point, what should we do to realize the sustainable growth of Tokyo and Japan? How could we improve our health care, social welfare, and long-term care services so that people feel secure? We are facing a horde of issues that cannot be solved by policies that are just an extension of those that came before.

The key to breaking through this critical impasse lies in “people.” While paying careful attention to the needs of each resident of Tokyo and taking bold measures that go beyond conventional thinking, we must create a society that allows everyone -- men and women, young and old, and people with and without impairments -- to fully realize his or her potential. The enormous vitality that will be generated through this approach will be the driving force for surviving the sweeping changes and for continuing to grow toward a bright future.

The projected population decline is a serious issue, but we must turn this into an opportunity to realize a Tokyo where everyone can play active roles. Therefore, we formulated the Key Policy Directions 2017 in July for intense advancement of worthy policies that gain the support of the citizens of Tokyo and focus even more on “people.” While making full use of the resources of Tokyo, we will implement eight strategies for the realization of a Tokyo where people can live fully and shine. The strategies include making childcare services better and more attractive, creating a society where everyone can support each other, and nurturing talent who will build the future of Tokyo and Japan.

The Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 will be our springboard to the future and an opportunity to accelerate preparations for 2025. In the lead up to the Games, we will make each of the Tokyo citizens, who are the source of the city’s vitality, shine more brilliantly to lay the foundation for Tokyo’s sustained growth. To this end, based on the key policy directions, we will further refine, and advance, the policies for 2020 outlined in our action plan. I am determined to take Tokyo to further heights as a mature city that will continue shining in the global arena 50 years, 100 years into the future. Having entered my second year of office as the governor, I have renewed my resolve to achieve these goals. I will do what must be done, and at an even faster pace.