Debates and Deliberations in Japan over Peacekeeping Missions After 1992

Abstract

The debates and deliberations surrounding Japan’s involvement in peacekeeping missions after 1992 have sparked considerable interest and controversy. Japan’s history of pacifism and its post-World War II constitution have been central in shaping these discussions. As efforts, various perspectives and concerns have emerged, reflecting Japan’s foreign policy’s complex and evolving nature. These debates and deliberations have been fueled by multiple factors, including the country’s pacifist legacy, concerns about potential involvement in armed conflicts, and constitutional limitations on the use offorce. Furthermore, public opinion and international pressure regarding more military involvement have also influenced the debates and deliberations surrounding ,Japan’s participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions (UNPKO). These discussions have centred on topics such as the interpretation of Article 9 of Japan’s constitution, which prohibits the use of force as a means to settle international disputes, the scope of Japan’s military involvement in peacekeeping activities, and the potential risks and benefits of contributing to global peace and security. Focusing on all these factors, this paper delves into Japan’s stance on peacekeeping missions after 1992, analyzing factors such as historical pacifism, constitutional constraints, and geopolitical considerations. It also examines the role of public opinion and international pressure in shaping Japan’s approach to these missions.