[RG22-2] Innovation and Development for Solving Social Problems (IDSSP)

There are social problems which have been commonly observed in the global society.
Some social problems persist for decades. At the same time, there are relatively new social problems, which emerged only recently. The former types of social problems can be largely divided into two groups; one involves those, which exists but are not understood or recognized fully and another includes those, which are recognized quite well and whose solutions have been discussed or even applied but remain in the society. Climate change and gender inequality may fall into this category. We can call these two groups of social problems as type 1 and 2. There are also social problems, which cannot fit into those categories. The inequality and individualization caused by the COVID-19 may be considered as an example of this group. We can call these emerging social problems as type 3. To tackle the problems of type 2 and type 3, new and innovative approaches may be needed.

For social problem solving, there are different actors, academia, citizens, international and national governments, NGOs, and private companies. Their roles could differ depending on the issues and contexts. Leading sector for solutions may also differ and the process of solving can be diverse. When social problems become complex, multidisciplinary methods may be useful.

In this research, we will study type 2 and type 3 social problems in a multidisciplinary way and compare innovative approaches in different countries and regions. Essential factors and bottlenecks for innovative approaches and solutions will be identified and policy instruments for innovative solutions will be demonstrated as a result of our studies.