In order to attempt to create safe and secure communities and realize a society of coexistence, the fundamental issues of a mature, 21st century society which were obtained from the lessons of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, the purpose of the Hyogo Earthquake Memorial 21st Century Research Institute is to continue investigative research as a comprehensive think tank based on the ideals of human care which enhance the dignity of life and the joy of living, while proposing policies on issues to contribute to the creation of a 21st century civilization.