The Japanese government has decided to extend the state of emergency by three weeks until June 20, less than a month from the start of the Tokyo Olympics.
The current measure in force in 9 prefectures, including the capital itself and the city of Osaka, would last until May 31.
"The infection curve is decreasing in some areas but on a general level the situation remains unpredictable," Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga told the press. In addition to Tokyo, where the decline in Covid infections remains "too low" according to health authorities, the restrictions will affect 8 other prefectures, from the region in the far north of Hokkaido, to the island of Okinawa in the south of the archipelago. A geographical area that contributes half of the Japanese economy and just over 40% of the population. While this is not a true European-style lockdown, bars and restaurants will be asked to close earlier at 8pm and no venues will be allowed to sell alcohol after 7pm.Greater decision-making power will also be granted to the various governors based on the different needs and criticalities of the health sector. Furthermore, according to the Japanese media, the deadline of 20 June could coincide with the decision of the Tokyo government on the possible access of the local public to the competitions, after the ban already decided on foreign spectators. In the meantime, the vaccination program in the country is proceeding slowly, with just 6% of the population having been immunized, while there are still logistical difficulties in the distribution of serum against Covid. The level of disapproval of the Games among public opinion still remains high, with almost 60% of respondents in the latest survey by the Kyodo agency opposed to the organization of the event.After the postponement of a year decided in March 2020, the opening ceremony of the Games is scheduled for 23 July, with a duration until 8 August, while the Paralympics will take place between 24 August and 5 September.