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Tokyo Report
Moving Beyond ‘Checkbook Diplomacy’? Japan’s Changing Refugee Policy
By Maximilien Xavier Rehm
In its response to recent events in Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Ukraine, Japan has demonstrated greater flexibility in admitting those needing refuge.
Kishida Replaces 4 Cabinet Members as Japan’s Political Fundraising Scandal Deepens
By Thisanka Siripala
The government is in damage control mode as it scrambles to contain public distrust over underreported fundraising revenue.
Slush Fund Scandal Rocks Japan’s Ruling Party
By Shannon Tiezzi
Allegations that members of the LDP underreported fundraising income to create a slush fund have shaken up the political scene.
How Green Is Japan’s COP28 Commitment?
By Thisanka Siripala
Japan’s decarbonization strategy is being slammed by environmental groups for prioritizing “clean” coal.
Japan Fears Growing Threat From North Korea’s Latest Spy Satellite
By Thisanka Siripala
Japan goes back to the drawing board to tackle North Korea’s spy satellite and advancing nuclear weapons program.
Is Prime Minister Kishida Leading Japan by Default?
By Aurelia George Mulgan
With plummeting approval ratings, Kishida's biggest strength seems to be that there's no obvious candidate to replace him.
Japan’s ‘Balanced’ Position on Palestine Fails to Impress
By Thisanka Siripala
In Japan, protests calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza are at odds with the government’s stance in the Israeli-Hamas war.
The Role of Malaysia in Japan’s New Security Strategy
By Collins Chong Yew Keat
Prime Minister Kishida Fumio’s recent visit to Malaysia highlighted a growing area of cooperation between the two countries.
A Message to Kim Jong Un From Mother of Japanese Girl Abducted by North Korea in 1977
By Takahashi Kosuke
The mother of Yokota Megumi, the most famous of the Japanese civilians abducted by North Korea, continues to push for her daughter's return.
Chinese Propaganda and Fukushima Treated Water Issue
By KAWASHIMA Shin
There have been some changes.
The 2-Level Game in Japan’s Agriculture Trade Negotiations
By Zhuoran Li
The Japanese agriculture sector has a long history of obstructing international trade talks.
Japan, Philippines Agree to Intensify Defense Cooperation
By Takahashi Kosuke
Japanese Prime Minister Kishida's visit to Manila saw the continued expansion of Japan-Philippines military cooperation.