Blog
Tokyo Report
What Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine Portends for Japan’s Northern Territories
By Aurelia George Mulgan
Tokyo appears to have finally realized that Putin has no intention of ever handing any of the disputed islands back to Japanese control.
Japan Eases COVID-19 Border Restrictions
By Thisanka Siripala
The limited reopening of borders is a welcomed relief, but the damage to Japan’s reputation could take years to repair.
Japan Cautiously Welcomes South Korean President-Elect
By Mari Yamaguchi
Tensions between the two are frozen over, but president-elect Yoon Suk-yeol has spoken of his interest in a thaw.
Taiwan Finally Lifts Japan Food Import Restrictions
By KAWASHIMA Shin
The move to allow produce from Fukushima and other prefectures is a breakthrough in relations.
What Ukraine Means for Japan
By Yukari Easton
Will Japan follow Germany’s suit in rethinking its approach to national security?
Can Japan Face Up to Its Legacy of Forced Sterilization?
By Thisanka Siripala
The state has appealed a landmark verdict ordering the Japanese government to pay compensation to victims of forced sterilization.
Japan Relaxes COVID-19 Border Controls, But Only Slightly
By Mari Yamaguchi
The cautious easing of restrictions stirred both hope and worry for the roughly half-a-million foreigners locked out of Japan since early 2020.
Japan’s Diet Resolution on the Uyghur Crisis
By KAWASHIMA Shin
Striking a balance, or a half-baked measure?
Assessing Japan’s Stance on Key East Asian Security Issues
By TSURUTA Jun
Japan recently conveyed to China its position on several security concerns.
Amid Ukraine Crisis, Japan Toughens Stance on Russia
By Thisanka Siripala
Japan’s sanctions on Russia could spell the end of previous efforts to resolve the long-standing territorial dispute.
Fukushima Disaster’s Impact on Health Will Be Challenged in Court
By Thisanka Siripala
A link between radiation from the Fukushima nuclear disaster and cancer will be the focal point of the civil court case against operator TEPCO.
Can Japan’s ‘New Capitalism’ Help Its Workers?
By Ulv Hanssen
Breaking with neoliberalism will require a resolve to confront capital and political opponents. Does Kishida have what it takes?