This book moves away from the common belief that Japans international relations are firmly the preserve of the national government in Japans highly centralised political system. Examining examples of subnational governments (SNGs) across Japan the book uncovers a significant and generally unrecognised development in Japanese politics: SNGs are ever more dynamic international actors as national borders weaken across the world. Exploring what Japanese SNGs do, where they do it, and why, the book considers the implications of these factors for Japans international relations and domestic politics.
By bringing to light the scope and consequences of the international actions of Japans SNGs, this book provides a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the country's foreign policy, at a time when it is pursuing a broader and more active profile in international affairs.
Preface Introduction 1. Contexts: Conceptual, Comparative and Japanese 2. Japanese SNGs as International Actors: Domestic Dimensions 3. International Exchanges: SNGs Lead With A Soft Approach 4. International Cooperation: A Strategic Edge 5. Economic Diplomacy 6. Hard Diplomacy: SNGs and National Security Conclusion
'A fascinating feature of Japanese politics at the local level is the energetic activity of many local authorities in developing relations with cities and regions in neighbouring countries. This has important implications for the future of Japanese foreign policy. Professor Jain is an excellent guide to these issues.'-
Arthur Stockwin, Scholar
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