2021.10.5

     Today’s class was about treaties.

     The first activity was arm wrestling. It is a simple comparison of POWER which can be considered as a metaphor for WWII. I fought with Haruka Ban but we ended up in the draw. It was done in a tournament style and 5 people who won played the role as P5(Permanent 5) of the United Nations Security Council. I am starting to get a feeling that this council is one of the significant key points in the international relationship. Last year, we learned about Japan’s financial contribution to the United Nation in the Social Studies class. I knew from the news that Japan wants to get a seat as a permanent member so it made sense for me that the government put that data in educational material that deeply influences young people’s minds. India wants to be part of it too and claims that the country with a large population(India is the second largest) should have a big influence as well. Would Japan and India be able to join the member? Sadly the possibility is very low. P5 has vetos and member that has a bad relationship with Japan and India is likely to use it when these 2 countries try to join.

     However, why would so many countries desire membership? The answer could be found in our second activity. We were divided into groups of 3 constituted by small powerless countries. We tried to discuss the current situation and come up with tactics to make each country’s future better. However, making treaty was almost impossible when these P5 were listening. We really can’t trust anyone because they are so big and influensial.