Japan's election as a nonpermanent member of the United Nations Security Council in mid-October means that Japan will again be able to make positive marks around the world. Though this is the 10th time for Japan to serve, the current problems in the world mean that Japan's interactions with foreign countries will take on added weight.

The burden of foreign policy and international action can be carried more easily through cooperation with Japan's numerous nongovernment organizations (NGOs). Although an essential source of information and advice, these NGOs have often failed to get the ear of the Foreign Ministry. Japan's NGOs have also been financially strapped.

The time to work for greater NGO/government cooperation within Japan is now. The need to help spur development, promote human rights, improve health and help keep peace throughout the world are more urgent than the bureaucratic squabbling over budgets, the authority in control, and minor policy shifts.

Cooperating with NGOs helps because most of these organizations run small-scale aid projects that give them invaluable insight into other cultures, governments and social customs. The many Japanese NGO workers on the ground in countries throughout the world are an invaluable resource. Their grassroots knowledge trickles upward during times of emergency. They offer a "third-track" diplomacy when difficult decisions must be made or dangerous situations arise.

The many Japanese NGOs in local communities abroad are able to complement the official global activities of Japanese government ministries. The Foreign Ministry has worked recently to improve its Official Development Assistance program. The newly reformed Japan International Cooperation Agency is a start. However, the distribution of ODA loans and grant aid can be more effectively accomplished by cooperation and coordination with the many NGOs that are already in place.

As Japan integrates with more communities at local and global levels, a better system for recognition of NGOs is required, along with greater transparency about distribution of ODA money.