Wither Japan's non-nuclear policy? : Balancing security interests and historical-cultural realities

Abstract

This dissertation aims to analyse Japan’s status as a non-nuclear-weapon state. In particular, it wants to reconcile the apparent dissonance between structural realist theory, the deteriorating security environment surrounding Japan, and the fact that the country does not seem interested in nuclearization to this day. In order to do so, this dissertation adopts an eclectic approach which comprises elements of realism and constructivism. The result of this investigation leads to the conclusion that, whereas Japan is aware of the security vulnerabilities it faces, nuclearization is unlikely to become the preferred option in the foreseeable future. The reasons provided are domestic and international, and include factors related both to alternative strategies to pursue national security goals, and to the constraints that Japan’s identity and an interplay of different actors entail. Finally, attention is paid to the problem of nuclear security and how pragmatic concerns also play a role when investigating Japan’s non-nuclear posture.