Japanese Empress Masako marked her 62nd birthday on Tuesday with a poignant reflection on peace, echoing the sentiment as the world confronts the historical shadows of conflict.

This year not only signifies the Empress’s milestone but also marks 80 years since the cessation of World War II—a period that profoundly transformed global dynamics and national narratives.

In a heartfelt statement released via the Imperial Household Agency, the Empress articulated her thoughts, reinforcing her commitment to promoting peace.

The royal couple’s recent journey to pivotal sites of historical significance—Iwoto Island in Ogasawara, Okinawa Prefecture, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki—serves as a solemn reminder of the catastrophic toll of warfare.

These locations bear scars of battles and bombings that define much of Japan’s turbulent past, and during these visits, the Empress paid tribute to the countless victims of such conflicts.

“I was reminded once again of a time in history when people had no choice but to endure hardship. I felt it is important for those who did not experience the war to learn [about it] and to pass on [these lessons] to future generations,” she stated.

The Empress emphasised the indispensable role that collective memories play in fostering a culture committed to peace, saying, “We should not forget” the efforts of many that have contributed to Japan’s enduring peace.

Recognising the ongoing wars and conflicts around the globe, she reflected on the necessity for dialogue to enhance understanding and cultivate a more tolerant, peaceful society. Her words resonate deeply in a world increasingly marked by divisions and unrest.

Empress Masako’s royal activities this year have been notable, with nine official visits to various regions—the most during the Reiwa era. In July, she and Emperor Naruhito commemorated Japanese nationals who perished during postwar internment in Mongolia.

Attending the opening ceremony of Naadam, Mongolia’s largest sporting festival, was marked as a deeply memorable experience by the Empress.

Earlier in January, she participated in the 30th anniversary ceremony for the Great Hanshin Earthquake in Kobe. Additionally, she visited the upcoming 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo, further strengthening her royal engagements.

As the nation prepares to mark multiple anniversaries in 2024—15 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake and 10 years since the Kumamoto Earthquake—the Empress expressed, “I want to spend my days keeping the victims in my thoughts.” Her dedication to the remembrance of historical tragedies highlights her commitment to promoting healing and understanding within society.

While she remains a symbol of grace and resilience, the Empress’s health continues to be scrutinised, with a group of medical professionals noting that she is still undergoing treatment for her adjustment disorder. Reports suggest that fluctuations in her condition persist, with fatigue often lingering after episodes.

IOL

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