The IJF Underlines its Solidarity with Japan

The IJF Underlines its Solidarity with Japan2011.03.19

International Judo Federation

Exactly one week ago, Japan was badly hit by an earthquake of enormous proportions, followed by a devastating tsunami.

As if this was not enough, the disasters triggered a nuclear crisis. In this particularly stressful context, the Japanese people remain full of dignity and strong. "Mutual aid and prosperity, " one of the foundations of our beloved judo, is applied daily in this ravaged country.

Since the first hours after the earthquake, the IJF has been in contact with the All Japan Judo Federation and the Kodokan to investigate the situation of the judo community in Japan. Even today, we remain on alert and we are gathering regular updates from our Japanese friends. While it is not yet time to take stock and is not yet possible to know exactly what is the exact situation in the most affected areas, the IJF extends its sincerest condolences to all families whom have been directly affected and to all Japanese people.

In the weeks and months ahead, we will work closely with the All Japan Judo Federation and with the Kodokan to determine how the IJF will support the judoka in the country, to give back to Japan, in the best way possible, a bit of that spirit of mutual aid that is the legacy of judo.