Mourning Shinzo Abe, Former Japanese Prime Minister

The Asia Foundation mourns the tragic and shocking death of Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Abe was an influential leader who transformed Japan’s global role, energized its foreign policy, expanded its global influence, and was deeply devoted to the people of Japan and the cause of global peace and security. He was an extraordinary figure on the world stage and died fully engaged in the work of democracy. >His vision for a free and open Asia-Pacific region endures and resonates deeply with The Asia Foundation’s mission and values.

The Asia Foundation is deeply honored to have shared a special and joyous occasion when Mrs. Akie Abe received The Asia Foundation’s Lotus Leadership Award for her commitment to advancing women’s empowerment in Japan and Asia. A tireless advocate for education, women’s empowerment, and international exchanges, Mrs. Abe remains a steadfast advocate for women in agriculture, innovation in women’s work-life balance, and women’s causes globally. Today we mourn deeply with her, the Abe family, and the world community.