NGO role key to historical reconciliation, say experts

By Kim Young-gyo

SEOUL, Oct. 9 (Yonhap) -- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are far more effective in overcoming historical animosities stemming from war and colonialism between East Asia's neighbors, experts said Thursday.

"Japan, China and South Korea recently launched an inter-governmental project on
a joint study of history. But, to be frank, I feel there's a limitation in such a
project," said professor Shininchi Arai of Surugai University in Japan.
He said Japan doubted whether the government-led South Korea-Japan study launched
in 2002 would be effective.
"I think that dialogue and cooperation between citizens are more appropriate than
a project between governments when solving historical issues," he said.
Arai participated in a four-day International NGO Conference on History and Peace
that opened Thursday in southern Seoul, the second such to be held. This year's
theme was "A Historical Step, a Peaceful Future."
Japan is often criticized by the two Koreas, as well as other Asian nations
victimized by imperial Japan's past wartime atrocities, including sexual
enslavement and forced labor. Governments accuse Tokyo of whitewashing its
colonial and militaristic past by refusing to acknowledge its past wrongdoings.
Johh W. McDonald, former U.S. diplomat and co-founder of the Institute for
Multi-Track Diplomacy, agreed with Arai.
"I want to talk about the powerful role that an NGO can play in helping to reduce
conflict and create a more peaceful existence through using multi-track diplomacy
as a tool," McDonald said.
Governments should get involved after NGOs reach conclusions, finalizing
agreements aimed at resolving conflicts, he said.
"Bringing professionals skilled in conflict resolution together from all parties
in the conflict will lead over time to the development of mutually agreed steps
designed to reduce the conflict," he said.