The International Association of Traffic and Safety Sciences (IATSS) is set to commemorate its 50th anniversary with a special event, at the Toranomon Hills Forum in Minato-ku, Tokyo. Established on September 17, 1974, with the vision of Honda Motor Co. founders Soichiro Honda and Takeo Fujisawa, the IATSS has spent five decades advancing research and initiatives aimed at creating a safer and more efficient mobility society.
Founded during a time of rapid motorization in Japan, the IATSS emerged in response to the growing challenges of traffic congestion, pollution, and rising road fatalities, which exceeded 10,000 annually in the 1970s. Initially, Honda’s Driving Safety Promotion Center sought to address these issues through hands-on safety education and awareness campaigns. However, the complexities of traffic-related problems required broader scientific research and interdisciplinary collaboration, leading to the creation of IATSS.
Over the past 50 years, the IATSS has played a crucial role in driving forward traffic safety research not only in Japan but also in developing countries across Asia. The association’s “co-creation” approach, which fosters collaboration with local organizations, has enabled the development of tailored solutions for traffic issues in these regions, while also providing valuable insights for Japan’s own transportation policies.
In addition to its traffic safety work, IATSS has made significant contributions to human resource development through the IATSS Forum, established in 1985 with support from Soichiro Honda and former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad. The program has empowered over 1,100 participants from 10 Asian countries with leadership skills to drive the future development of their nations.
The upcoming 50th-anniversary event will not only celebrate the achievements of IATSS but also outline its vision for the future. By continuing to collaborate with experts from diverse fields, the association aims to expand its activities and further its mission of realizing the ideal mobility society for generations to come.
