Japan in the Year 2024

At its 10th annual Japan in the Year conference, the Japan-America Society of Washington DC will partner with the Wilson Center to discuss what’s in store for the year ahead in Japan’s foreign policy and domestic affairs.

As the war in Ukraine continues and tensions in the Middle East persist, 2024 will be a year that will be defined by uncertainties. Elections are scheduled across the world, including Asia. As a result, Japan’s global leadership will be critical to ensure stability in an uncertain world. At the same time, a stronger US-Japan relationship will be at the heart of ensuring peace across the Indo-Pacific and to promote a rules-based order in the region.

Japan has emerged as a global leader on a wide range of key issues that transcend its own border, from economic architecture to non-proliferation and climate change. It has furthered existing relations with the United States, enhanced ties with Australia, and taken significant steps to working together with South Korea and the United States for trilateral cooperation. Japan has emerged as a diplomatic powerhouse, acting as a trusted partner to bridge the Middle East as well as Southeast Asia to complement Washington.

Still, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida faces significant challenges at home, not least economic management, cabinet scandals, and possibility of leadership change raise questions about whether Japan itself can enjoy the consistent leadership that may be required for Japan to realize its potential for global leadership at a time when it is greatly needed.