From Militarism to Pacifism: Understanding the Need to Revise Japan's Article 9

Abstract

The Japanese are proceeding towards an Article 9 revision, and have been for some time. Careful consideration must be given to avoid a miscalculation that might threaten the peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Evolving from militarism to passive pacifism, the Japanese now need to evolve further into proactive pacifism to address todays security environment. Real security threats exist for the Japanese, driving shifts in public opinion and policy for the Japanese Self-Defense Forces. These new challenges, both internally to Japan and within the Indo-Pacific region, require an introspective look at outdated elements of the Japanese Constitution like Article 9. The potential ramifications of permanent constitutional changes are likely to be significant, but revision of Article 9 remains the logical conclusion to addressing these challenges. The United States must support its long-standing ally, as Japan takes the next logical step in reaffirming its rightful place alongside other reasonable actors in the Indo-Pacific region.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 11, 2018
Accession Number
AD1053686

Entities

People

  • Glen E. Sidaras

Organizations

  • National Defense University

Tags

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  • Counter WMD
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  • Asian Economic Studies
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