IJCC Statement on the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

As a Chamber of Commerce, our mission is to strengthen business and community ties between Ireland and Japan. We normally focus on trade, innovation, and professional collaboration. However, there are moments when human reality compels us to speak beyond our commercial role.

The formal declaration of famine in Gaza marks such a moment. Food, water, and medical supplies remain just beyond reach, while families, especially children, continue to suffer from hunger, disease, and displacement. This is not only a food crisis; it is a full-scale humanitarian emergency.

The Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce is not a humanitarian organisation. However, we are proud to include NGOs and non-profit actors among our diverse membership. Their missions are humanitarian, not commercial and at times like this, we stand in solidarity with them.

Ireland’s history as a nation that has experienced famine gives us a deep cultural understanding of its devastation. Japan’s long tradition of contributing to international peacebuilding and disaster relief reminds us that compassion and cooperation are core national values. As a Chamber connecting these two nations, we believe silence is not an option.

We join international voices including the World Food Programme, UNICEF, Concern Worldwide, and others in calling for immediate and unhindered humanitarian access to affected populations. We encourage those who wish to help to follow and support the work of trusted humanitarian agencies on the ground.

While IJCC does not deliver humanitarian aid, we can lend our platform to amplify those who do. Business connects people and people must always come first.