The “Normalization” of Japan’s Defense Policy

Abstract

Japanese security identity is shifting from a traditionally “pacifist” position toward a more proactive and autonomous one. However, Japan has constitutional, social and military constraints for full autonomy in the management of its own security affairs. The paper states that the transition of Japanese defence policy is on the path of a ‘normalization’ process. In particular, the second Abe Cabinet explicitly eases ‘pacifist’ institutional constraints in favour of enhancing Japan’s role in international security affairs. The changing security environment, new security cooperations and transforming security identity definitely contribute to Japan’s ‘normalization’ process on defence policy.