At the 1979 Peace Studies Association of Japan (PSAJ) conference held in Okinawa, Okinawan presenters bitterly criticized opinion leaders from mainland Japan who presented arguments that lacked a perspective on the Okinawan people. PSAJ accepted this criticism and deepened the concept of “Independence” by conducting discussions that respected the Okinawan local perspective. Despite this, the political reality in Okinawa has not changed. This is because“Independence” and“ Peace” have become unconditionally linked. In this paper, we examine what kind of “Independence”is required to realize“Peace” in Okinawa.

First, I clarified that Okinawa is a “decision-maker without decision-making authority” by reviewing the history of the Futenma base relocation issue. Next, using the results of a survey of Okinawan citizens’ recognitions, I argued that some Okinawans have given up on the U.S. military base issues. Furthermore, I pointed out that the majority of Japanese society accepts the Japanese government’s attitude that has made Okinawa “the decision-maker without decision-making authority,” and as a result, the gap between Okinawa and mainland Japan is widening. I also revealed that the spread of neoliberalism’s values and the crisis of democracy are behind these situations.

In order to break out of this situation, we must create a political system that allows the voice of Okinawa to be reflected in politics. To do so, it is necessary to continue to resist the technocrats, including entrepreneurs, bureaucrats, and politicians, who have pushed neoliberalism forward. This is the responsibility of Japanese society and PSAJ.