The Journal of Research Institute for the History of Global Arms Transfer
Online ISSN : 2423-8546
Print ISSN : 2423-8538
ISSN-L : 2423-8538
Japan’s Security Policy at a Turning Point
Prospects for the “Three Security Documents” and Non-Armed and Non-Aligned Theory
ATSUSHI KOKETSU
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JOURNAL OPEN ACCESS

2023 Volume 2023 Issue 2 Pages 35-55

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Abstract
Japan’s defence policy is currently facing its greatest turning point since World War II. In this paper, I shall highlight the salient points in the ‘Three Security Documents’ (Anpo Sanbunsho), which comprise the National Security Strategy, the National Defence Strategy and the Defense Buildup Program and collectively declared a change in Japan’s defence policy. The Anpo Sanbunsho identified China as a de facto virtual enemy and verified the reinforcement of the Japan–US alliance while announcing a significant increase in defence spending and the maintenance of counterstrike capability. I shall also ask whether the theory of deterrence capability, which the Japanese government repeatedly advocates, is really a rational choice. While the United States is actively pushing for Japan to become a military superpower, this paper will point out the dangers of the US’ China ‘siege’ strategy. In response, Japan has effectively abandoned its exclusively defence-oriented policy. On this basis, I propose that Japan’s future security policy should be based on a non-aligned diplomacy policy of demilitarisation that is consistent with the Japanese Constitution and question whether Asia’s current security environment has really changed. The paper shall conclude that Japan should adopt a security policy that strives for peace-building and does not rely on military force while implementing a non-armed, non-aligned policy.
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© 2023 Meiji University Research Institute for the History of Global Arms Transfer
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