What does a state of emergency mean for Japan?
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/coronavirus-what-does-a-state-of-emergency-mean-for-japan
Japan is the third largest economy in the world. Once appeared to be avoiding a full-blown epidemic, the country has recently seen a large increase in coronavirus cases, especially in Tokyo and Osaka.
The main answer as to why Japan has such low infection rate is likely due to Japan has not conducted extensive coronavirus testing intentionally or otherwise.
Was it a coincidence that after March 24 when Tokyo called off the 2020 Olympics, then the virus started to spread rapidly? Three days later on 27 March, Japan saw its biggest daily increase. By Monday 30 March, Tokyo alone marked the biggest daily increase in COVID-19 cases since the epidemic began.
There is speculation that mitigation strategies were delayed in order to quell fears about hosting the Olympics during an outbreak.
At present, the number of coronavirus cases stands at 3653, and 85 deaths.
Japan’s Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, plans to declare a state of emergency in Tokyo and six other prefectures in an attempt to stem a sharp rise.
The government has no legal authority to impose the kind of lockdowns seen in other countries, or to fine residents who ignore the request. Japan's legal system, influenced by the legacy of wartime excesses, limits the government's power over its citizens.
Under the state of emergency, the governors of the prefectures are empowered to do the following, but offer no reinforcement:to call for restrictions on movement
Public transport is expected to continue running, though possibly on a more limited basis. Shops and other business may remain open.
Thank you for reading.
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/coronavirus-what-does-a-state-of-emergency-mean-for-japan
Japan is the third largest economy in the world. Once appeared to be avoiding a full-blown epidemic, the country has recently seen a large increase in coronavirus cases, especially in Tokyo and Osaka.
The main answer as to why Japan has such low infection rate is likely due to Japan has not conducted extensive coronavirus testing intentionally or otherwise.
Was it a coincidence that after March 24 when Tokyo called off the 2020 Olympics, then the virus started to spread rapidly? Three days later on 27 March, Japan saw its biggest daily increase. By Monday 30 March, Tokyo alone marked the biggest daily increase in COVID-19 cases since the epidemic began.
There is speculation that mitigation strategies were delayed in order to quell fears about hosting the Olympics during an outbreak.
At present, the number of coronavirus cases stands at 3653, and 85 deaths.
Japan’s Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, plans to declare a state of emergency in Tokyo and six other prefectures in an attempt to stem a sharp rise.
The government has no legal authority to impose the kind of lockdowns seen in other countries, or to fine residents who ignore the request. Japan's legal system, influenced by the legacy of wartime excesses, limits the government's power over its citizens.
Under the state of emergency, the governors of the prefectures are empowered to do the following, but offer no reinforcement:to call for restrictions on movement
- to encourage people to stay at home and to practise social distancing when they go out
- to call for businesses like entertainment venues or department stores, to close their doors
- to order the cancellation of events
- to commandeer buildings or land for medical purposes
- to close public institutions like schools
Public transport is expected to continue running, though possibly on a more limited basis. Shops and other business may remain open.
Thank you for reading.
