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1. Background

The “Panel Discussion on Equine-Assisted Activities for Persons with Disabilities in ASEAN and Japan” will be organized by the ASEAN Secretariat in partnership with the Hosei University Institute on Human-Horse Well-Being of Japan, with support from the Thoroughbred Aftercare and Welfare (TAW) of Japan. From a health and well-being perspective, equine-assisted activities can be highly beneficial in promoting the health and well-being of persons with disabilities in ASEAN and Japan.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this Panel Discussion is to enhance understanding of the current status of equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities in ASEAN and Japan, and to strengthen the partnership between ASEAN and Japan by establishing a foundation for exchange and dialogue among representatives from selected ASEAN Member States and Japan.

3. Expected Outcomes

This event aims to provide an opportunity to discuss future directions for these activities based on the ASEAN-Japan partnership and to identify further collaborative steps towards promoting the health and well-being of persons with disabilities in ASEAN and Japan.

4. Topics for Discussion

- To share information and experience of practices on equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities in some ASEAN Member States and Japan

- To identify lessons learned and future direction regarding equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities

- To create synergy for international cooperation on equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities in ASEAN and Japan

- To facilitate exchange and discussion on equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities further at all levels

5. Program Outline

- Opening Remarks
- Presentations on Equine-Assisted Activities by Representatives from ASEAN/Japan
- Panel Discussion and Question & Answer Session
- Closing Remarks and Summary of Discussion

【Reflection】

On Friday, June 27, 2025, the “Panel Discussion on Equine-Assisted Activities for Persons with Disabilities in ASEAN and Japan” took place at Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025. This event was organized by the ASEAN Secretariat, co-hosted by the Hosei University Institute for Human-Horse Well-being, with the support of the Thoroughbred Aftercare and Welfare (TAW).

During the panel discussion, the presentations were given on the current status and challenges of equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities in the ASEAN region, including Malaysia and Vietnam. Following these presentations, the recommendations focusing on the following three points were compiled to further strengthen the partnership between ASEAN and Japan:

1) To establish mutual learning mechanism between ASEAN and Japan on equine-assisted activities for persons in need such as those with disabilities, and strengthen collaboration among partners, including universities.

2) To advance research and dynamic discussions focused on human-horse well-being, and establish initiatives for equine-assisted activities for individuals with diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, across ASEAN Member States and Japan.

3) To facilitate networking among partners regarding equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities in ASEAN and Japan, while simultaneously promoting the utilization of various horses, including retired racehorses.

The panel discussion concluded successfully with a shared understanding among participants to “continue collaborative efforts to further develop equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities, focusing primarily on ASEAN Member States and Japan.”

【Post EXPO Initiatives】

A panel discussion on equine-assisted activities for persons with disabilities in ASEAN　and Japan was held, with presentations on practices in Malaysia, Vietnam, and Japan. As a follow-up, a workshop will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, by the end of the year 2025, primarily involving members who participated in the recent exchange program, to discuss the concrete implementation of initiatives based on the recommendations. In particular, a framework will be drafted by the end of the year to promote the active participation of young people through a triangular collaboration between disability related organizations, equestrian groups, and universities.

One of the major achievements of this panel discussion is the establishment of a foundation for implementing the recommendations over multiple years. Thoroughbred Aftercare and Welfare, which supported the panel discussion, is also proactive about future networking and practical exchanges.

Hosei University Institute on Human-Horse Well-being of Japan

Thoroughbred Aftercare and Welfare of Japan