Years after the devastating earthquake in South Sanriku, the remains of a missing six-year-old has come to the forefront of national news. While the identity of the child remains unconfirmed, the reemergence of the child's case shines a light on Japan's ongoing struggle with the aftermath of countless natural disasters.
Natural disasters are frequent in Japan; as such, loss and its accompanying grief are common aspects of Japanese society. The case of the missing child has struck an emotional chord with the public, given the child's tender age when the event occurred. It's a reminder of the innocence lost and the continued aftermath of the earthquake.
While missing person cases are treated seriously worldwide, the response can vary. In the US, an AMBER alert system quickly disseminates information about missing children. The EU has a similar child alert system. Japan lacks an institutionalized alert system of the same nature. The handling of this case demonstrates the limitations within the system but also the persistent attempts in finding closure.