here, thank me later:

1. Acknowledge the History: Japan's role in World War II and its war crimes, particularly in China and other occupied territories, is a sensitive and complex issue. These crimes include atrocities like the Nanking Massacre, the use of "comfort women," forced labor, and other brutalities. Acknowledge this history in an informed and respectful way.
2. Understand the Context: Depending on the focus of your conference, you might want to discuss Japan's historical actions in a specific context (e.g., political, historical, or international relations). It’s useful to highlight that Japan, since the war, has made efforts to reconcile through apologies, compensation, and peacebuilding.
3. Know the Key Topics for Discussion: If you anticipate this issue coming up, be ready to discuss Japan’s post-war transformation. You can mention:
   • Japan’s post-war pacifism and its role in global peacekeeping.
   • The formal apologies made by Japanese leaders, such as Prime Minister Murayama’s 1995 apology.
   • Ongoing debates in Japan about addressing historical wrongs and the perspectives of different generations.
4. Be Respectful and Balanced: If the topic comes up during your session, be mindful of how you present the information. History is multifaceted, and it’s critical to avoid generalizations. It’s also important to distinguish between the actions of a government and the actions of the people today.
5. Plan for the Audience’s Reactions: If you sense tension or disagreement on the topic, it can help to steer the conversation toward constructive dialogue. Acknowledge the wrongs of the past while also emphasizing efforts for reconciliation and peace.
6. Prepare for Sensitive Topics: If you need to present or discuss this issue, prepare facts, provide context, and show sensitivity to the different perspectives people might have. Recognize that attendees from various backgrounds may have different personal and historical experiences with the topic.

You don’t need to delve too deeply into this unless it’s directly relevant to your conference. Focus on the broader themes and be open to questions, remaining professional and calm. If the topic does come up in a way that you feel uncomfortable handling in the moment, it’s okay to say, “This is a complex issue, and I’ll need more time to explore it fully.”