LocationsJPO Story - Hatsumi Sato
May 27, 2026
Hatsumi on a two-week learning assignment with UNDP Sri Lanka
What is your educational background? How has your education shaped your approach to development work?
I majored in International Studies, with a particular interest in the history of Japanese migrants in America. Through this academic focus, I gained a deeper understanding of migration as a global phenomenon and how movement of people is shaped not only by individual aspirations but also by structural factors such as law, policy, and social integration. This perspective influenced my early career at the Immigration Service Agency Japan (the Ministry of Justice of Japan), where I worked for 8 years on works related to migration policy. The academic grounding and practical experience helped me to gain both a human perspective and an understanding of institutional frameworks. This background guided me toward my current JPO position at UNDP, where I apply people-centered approach to broader development issues.
What inspired you to apply to the JPO programme and what is your motivation to work with your UN agency?
During my time at the Ministry of Justice of Japan, I had the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues in UNDP Country Office. I was inspired by the support of colleagues working under challenging circumstances to support the country’s development and resilience. This experience showed me the tangible impact that international cooperation can have, and it inspired me to pursue a career where I could contribute to such efforts more directly.
Working as a government official in Japan, I gained experience for some years in serving the public. However, I also came to recognize the limitations that exist within the mandate of each country. What I find particularly inspiring about working in the UN is the possibility to go beyond those national boundaries to work creatively and collaboratively with partners from diverse backgrounds to address shared challenges. This global and cooperative approach is one of the most appealing aspects of UN work for me.
Hatsumi Sato, Programme Analyst, Rule of Law and Human Rights Team in UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub.
What are the main activities/tasks you are working on? Can you walk us through a typical day in your role - whether in the office or out in the field?
I am currently working with the Rule of Law and Human Rights team in UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub, where our focus is on promoting Access to Justice. This year, we are prioritizing three thematic areas: Gender Justice, Environmental Justice, and Digital Justice. I am currently leading the digital justice component, which involves supporting countries in their digital transformation to make justice systems more inclusive and accessible.
I am mostly in the office. A typical day usually starts with internal coordination meetings and planning discussions with my team, followed by desk works such as drafting concept notes, analytical work, or designing regional seminars. I sometimes have meeting for communicating with other teams, partners in government, other UN agencies, and civil society organizations to organize events. Sometimes my role also involves facilitating webinars to gather insights from colleagues in Country Offices as part of the community of practice.
Which Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) does your work contribute to, and how?
Our team’s work contributes primarily to SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. We focus on Access to Justice with people-centered approach, advancing civil justice reforms, supporting customary and informal justice systems, and fostering e-justice initiatives. By strengthening access to justice and building more inclusive institutions, we help ensure that justice systems respond effectively to people’s need. As the Regional Hub, we also have a role to support UNDP Country Offices in the region by providing technical advice, sharing knowledge and best practices, and facilitating regional knowledge exchange.
What has been the most challenging project you've undertaken during your time with UNDP, and what did you learn from the experience?
One of the most challenging part of my experience was preparation for the People-Centred Justice regional conference held last November under JIN ASEAN project. JIN ASEAN is a regional platform that brings together judges and judicial institutions across Southeast Asia. Its purpose is to promote judicial integrity, share good practices, and strengthen people-centered justice systems. I joined the team in the middle of the preparation process, which meant stepping into an intense period of preparations. It was also the very beginning of my journey at UNDP, so I had to quickly learn how the organization functions internally and how to manage relationships with external partners.
Although it was a steep learning curve, this experience helped me integrate smoothly into the team. I learned the importance of clear communication, effective coordination, and building trust with colleagues and partners under tight timelines.
Hatsumi with JPO colleagues during PPO training in NY, 2025.
What has been the most rewarding experience you have had at your duty station - whether professional or personal - that has shaped your journey as a JPO?
One of the most rewarding experiences has been designing and leading sessions for regional events and internal webinars. It was my first time taking responsibility for the entire process from identifying and inviting speakers, to moderating the discussion, and engaging with the audience.
Although it has been challenging, I found it very rewarding to create spaces where participants could exchange knowledge and engage with practical insights. This experience taught me not only event management skills but also how to think from the perspective of diverse stakeholders, ensuring that sessions are meaningful and inclusive for all. I have been leading sessions related to Digital Justice, so I was able to deepen my own understanding by learning from experts and practitioners designing these sessions. It has shaped my journey as a JPO by giving me confidence to take initiative and contribute to knowledge-sharing work.
Another rewarding experience is joining the JPO training in NY. I learnt a lot from amazing lectures and JPO colleagues across the world. It was also a great opportunity to deepen connections with fellow JPOs who share the same journey, which was very inspiring.
What set of skills have you developed most throughout your assignment?
During my assignment, I have developed coordination and communication skills. Working with colleagues from deferent background including UNDP Country Offices, government counterparts, and other UN agencies has required me to align different perspectives and ensure smooth collaboration. I have learned how to manage expectations, facilitate dialogue, and communicate clearly across cultural and institutional contexts. These skills will be essential when I continue to work in international development, where building consensus and trust are key to achieving results.
What piece of advice would you give to those who are considering applying to the JPO Programme?
My advice is to take the opportunity with curiosity and courage. You do not need to be perfect from the beginning. I believe what matters is your openness to learn and to adapt. I often remind myself that only those who dare to challenge themselves may occasionally make errors, and even mistakes are valuable lessons that help you grow both personally and professionally. With this mindset, every challenge becomes an opportunity, and your JPO journey will be even more rewarding. Even now, almost two years into my JPO journey, I continue to learn through my mistakes.
Hatsumi speaking at People-Cantered Justice Regional conference in November 2024.
How has your JPO experience shaped your vision for your future within the UN or beyond?
The JPO programme has been an amazing starting point. It has given me the opportunity to engage with a wide range of people both inside and outside UNDP, which has broadened my perspectives and helped me think more clearly about my future direction. Through these experiences, I have realized the importance of working at the intersection of policy and practice, and of building partnerships that connect global agendas with local realities. Going forward, I hope to continue contributing to international development by applying the skills I have gained as a JPO, whether within the UN system or in other fields where inclusive and people-centred approaches are valued.
We also love hearing about the lighter side of life in the field; do you have a funny anecdote or a unique tradition from your duty station that made you smile?
Songkran, the Thai New Year water festival held in April during the hottest season, is always full of fun and excitement. My first experience of Songkran was last year when I took a tuk-tuk to go shopping. Along the way, people on the streets splashed water on me from every direction until I was completely soaked. The tuk-tuk driver even stopped at every corner so I could enjoy the splash. When I arrived the supermarket, the strong air conditioning made me shiver and I caught a cold. In my second year, I felt more settled and was able to enjoy these cultural experiences together with my colleagues.
It was both funny and memorable, and it perfectly reflects the joyful spirit of Thailand during this festival.
My JPO journey has been like exploring a vast ocean. At times it is challenging, but I am always guided by reliable and supportive colleagues who help me navigate the way.Hatsumi Sato
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