Takehito Ito
Japan Federation of the Visually Impaired

Ever since the spread of COVID-19, the visually impaired have experienced a tough situation, as everyone else has done, but also in unique and specific ways due to the characteristics of their disabilities.  The avoidance of “3 Cs” is an issue which weighs heavily upon the visually impaired, who have greatly valued touch and face-to-face dialogue.

Welcome remarks by Mr Yoshihiko Sasagawa, Chair of the Organizing Committee (15th WBUAP Massage Seminar)

The organizational activities of such visually impaired people have also shifted towards being held online for the most part.  However, opposition to hold events through web conference systems arose mainly from older people who could not use computers or smartphones.  For these reasons, it was necessary to make adjustments when holding events, such as providing opportunities for participants to test their ability to access the event in advance.

Despite this, the merits of online events have gained widespread recognition.  The ability to participate in an event from anywhere in the country has led to alleviation of travel costs.  For the visually impaired, whom mobility is difficult, this is a significant advantage.

China Satellite Venue (Fujian Province)

As an example of best practice in the holding of online events, I would like to introduce the 15^th WBUAP (World Blind Union – Asia Pacific) Massage Seminar, which was held on September 24 – 25 last year hosted by the National Committee of Welfare for the Blind in Japan*.

Thai venue: Mr. Pecharat Techawachara, who served remotely as the chair of the country reports

This seminar is a festive event, held once every two years, where those involved in massage in the Asia Pacific region come together in one place.

In the past, emphasis had been placed on exchange of skills through touching one another’s hands, and there was apparently some opposition to holding the seminar online.  At the end, however, a total of 688 people from 17 countries and regions participated in the two days; where 10 country reports and 15 research presentations were given; and the event was a great success.

We received some favorable reports, such as that more people than usual were able to participate since participants got together in each country to listen to the seminar, and that students at schools for the visually impaired were able to access the latest information during their classes.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those at the National Committee of Welfare for the Blind in Japan and beyond who worked so hard to holding this seminar.  As in this case, exploring the potential of online events while seeking the best way to do things after COVID-19, is perhaps where we are at now in terms of organizational activities by the visually impaired.

*National Committee of Welfare for the Blind in Japan: made up of organizations related to visual impairments, including the Japan Federation of the Visually Impaired.  Participates in the WBU as the member organization from Japan.  Has achieved major successes in fields such as international exchange and support for disaster areas.