17 Nov – Japan’s new security policy – proactive pacifism or militarism?

Japan’s new security policies – proactive pacifism or resurgent militarism?
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In March 2016, a new security legislation came into effect in Japan which expanded the legal framework for its so-called Self-Defense Forces to operate and be deployed abroad. This meant a further departure from Japan’s Post–World War II Constitution and in particular pacifist article 9, which renounced Japan’s right to wage war as means of settling international disputes.
With increasing tensions in Asia, Japan’s reinterpretation of the constitution has been closely scrutinized by neighbouring states such as China or South Korea. While Japan highlights its continued adherence to peace and emphasises that those policies constitute a more proactive contribution to peace, some also interpret such changes as similar to Japan’s militaristic and imperial past.
Against this background, Stephanie Winkler, will with this lecture explore the broader context of the new legislation and what it might entail for Japan’s role in the region and beyond.
Stephanie Winkler holds a M.A. in International Relations from Leiden University a B.A. in Asian Studies, Specialization East and Central Asia, from Bonn University (2013).
Date: 17/11/2016
Time: 18:15
Place: Ekonomikum, Hörsal 4
Admission: Free for members, 60 kr for non-members.
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