Mr. Naoko Takasu

I have been involved in the practical aspects of international cooperation for about 25 years in various workplaces, including private companies, government-affiliated financial institutions, and the United Nations. In particular, my time at the UN from 2003 to 2020 was challenging but rewarding, as I lived in many different countries. However, I began to question whether problems such as poverty, inequality, and environmental destruction would be solved as long as countries aimed for GDP growth, and so I started researching "social solidarity economy" in my doctoral program.

Social solidarity economy is a citizen-led economic activity that prioritizes people's well-being and the global environment over the accumulation of wealth, and is based on principles such as reciprocity, inclusiveness, and democratic management. It is a movement that encourages a rethinking of the way the economy operates.
I often feel like a minority while living in Japan, but I find it encouraging and very enjoyable to learn from practitioners and researchers of the social solidarity economy who share similar concerns.

My hobbies include reading, traveling, and enjoying good wine. On my days off, I do yoga and attend Toastmasters club meetings. I started helping farmers a few years ago, and that's something I want to focus on going forward.

You might think that international cooperation is irrelevant in this day and age, but I feel that many people have a narrow understanding of it. In reality, it's directly connected to the daily lives of ordinary people. Moreover, encountering different worlds is a very enjoyable experience that can change your values and perspectives. Let's learn together!