Prime Minister Takaichi Leads Japan's FY2025 Nuclear Disaster Prevention Drill

Prime Minister Takaichi Oversees Critical Drill

On November 29, 2025, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi led the FY2025 Nuclear Energy Disaster Prevention Drill at the Prime Minister's Office in Japan. The comprehensive exercise aimed to test and strengthen the nation's response capabilities in the event of a nuclear emergency. Prime Minister Takaichi, who assumed office on October 21, 2025, actively participated in key segments of the drill, highlighting the government's focus on national safety and preparedness.

Simulated Emergency Response and Coordination

During the drill, Prime Minister Takaichi engaged in critical simulated activities designed to mirror a real-world nuclear crisis. These included holding an emergency press conference to communicate with the public and chairing a Joint Meeting of the Nuclear Emergency Response Headquarters and the Major Disaster Management Headquarters. Such exercises are crucial for ensuring seamless coordination among various government agencies, local municipalities, and nuclear operators. They typically involve:

• Establishing an emergency response system at the Prime Minister's official residence.
• Information sharing and decision-making processes between central and local organizations.
• Decision-making on protective actions for affected populations.

Japan's Robust Nuclear Preparedness Framework

Japan maintains a highly developed framework for nuclear disaster preparedness, a system significantly refined following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi accident. The nation's approach is guided by the Act on Special Measures Concerning Nuclear Emergency Preparedness, which mandates regular drills and outlines the responsibilities of various entities in a nuclear emergency. These drills often simulate complex scenarios, including natural disasters combined with nuclear incidents, to ensure readiness for a wide range of potential threats.

Government's Commitment to Safety

The Prime Minister plays a central role in Japan's disaster management structure, chairing the Central Disaster Management Council and the Nuclear Emergency Response Headquarters. The consistent participation of the nation's top leadership in these drills underscores Japan's unwavering commitment to protecting its citizens from the consequences of a nuclear disaster. These exercises serve as vital opportunities to evaluate and enhance the effectiveness of emergency response plans, ensuring that all levels of government and relevant organizations are prepared to act swiftly and decisively in a crisis.