Tag
Japan politics
Japanese Politics Rocked by Arrests Over Voter Bribery Scandal
By Thisanka Siripala
A mammoth voter buying scandal involving a former ruling LDP cabinet minister poses a challenge for the Abe administration.
Coronavirus or No, Japan’s Politics Remain Stuck
By Yusaku Yoshikawa
Despite strong disapproval of Prime Minister Abe’s COVID-19 response, the public sees little alternative to his continued governance.
Abe’s Popularity Plummets Amid Latest Controversy
By Thisanka Siripala
Abe’s approval ratings fell to a two-year low as online protests derailed the passage of a bill delaying the retirement age of prosecutors.
Abe Can’t Afford to Mishandle Japan’s COVID-19 Response
By Titli Basu
The prime minister’s political legacy is at stake amid the coronavirus epidemic.
New Year, Same Fight: Japan’s PM Pledges Constitutional Revision and Social Security Reforms
By Thisanka Siripala
In response to Japan’s super aging society, Prime Minister Abe vows to tackle Japan's biggest challenge: major social security reform.
New Year, New Scandals for Japan’s Ruling Party
By Mina Pollmann
Once again, Abe and his LDP are beset by multiple scandals. And once again, it doesn't seem to be impacting their political dominance.
Japan, South Korea, and the Politics of the Present
By Jennifer Lind
Relations between Japan and South Korea have long fluctuated between comity and crisis.
Japan’s Upper House Election Results: A Win for Diversity?
By Thisanka Siripala
Despite a record number of female and handicapped candidates winning seats, hurdles remain.
Is Populism Finally Coming to Japan?
By Daisuke Minami
The success of the leftist Reiwa Shinsengumi marks a turning point in Japanese politics.
Japan Prepares for Upper House Elections
By Mina Pollmann
In addition to issues like constitutional reform, social questions like disabled and LGBT rights are also in the spotlight.
Report: Japan’s Public Pension Fund Not Enough to Cover Post-Retirement Needs
By Thisanka Siripala
The government rejected the report's findings, but the public is up in arms over the pension scare.
Japan’s New Imperial Era: What’s in a Name?
By Thisanka Siripala
After the highly anticipated new imperial era was unveiled, its carefully considered name – Reiwa – has attracted criticism.