Notwithstanding the ongoing friction between pacifists and supporters of militarization, Japan has managed to build up its defence capabilities. The process of remilitarization began when Japan was still under the post World War II western occupation. The capabilities were not developed overnight. It was an incremental process. No country can match Japan's achievement of creating a perfect equilibrium between pacifism and (re)militarization. Japan has successfully managed to retain the democratic values and civilian control over its military (self-defence forces). Two diametrically opposite concepts anti-militarism and (re)militarization form the very basis of this book. Japanese pacifism and peace loving image shields the ongoing (re)militarization. Japanese commitment for international peace and security further fortifies it. At the same time, remilitarization efforts act as a fuel for anti-militarism movements. One has to really dig deep to know the nuances of Japanese security paradigm which ranges from reliance on the US to collective security to comprehensive security.
Despite constitutional pacifism and other internal and external criticisms, militarization in Japan has completed a full circle. (Re)militarization in Japan has several implications for rest of the world in general and Asia in particular. Geo-strategically, Japan stands in the middle of one of the most militarized regions. A small incident can trigger a war. Japanese security discourse also entails its foreign and domestic policies. Japan still continues to rely on the US for its security needs. The US-Japan security alliance is the driving force behind Japanese security policy. Japan has preferred to stay out of military alliances like NATO but it has never compromised its preparedness to meet the contingencies. Japan has been expanding its military cooperation with several countries under various frameworks. China and Koreas are most vocal critics of Japanese remilitarization. North Korean threat is real one. Japan has economic clout and stakes across the world. Any significant development in Japan will have spill over effect on entire world.
Under the continues pressure from the international community and conservatives within Japan, Japan has also compromised with its 'non-combat post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation policy.' Japanese troops have actually extended rear-echelon support to the US during the time when actual war was on in Afghanistan inviting criticism from neighbours and applause from allies. This book provides in-depth analysis of Japanese security policy, remilitarization process and the forces influencing political and military dynamics. |
