Globalized United States-Japan Alliance and Japan's Security in the 21st Century

Abstract

This paper analyzes United States bases in Japan and Japan's options in security and foreign policy in the 21st century. First, the paper discusses the roles of and the problems over United States bases in Japan, taking into consideration potential threats to Japan. It focuses on whether United States forces in Japan really defend the country and whether there are potential threats to Japan. The author contends that it is the SDF that really defends Japan, not United States forces and that there are little potential threats to the country. The author contends that it is the SDF that really defends Japan, not United States forces and that there are little potential threats to the country. The author also argues that the Japanese Government pays up to 75 persent of the cost to keep United States bases in Japan. Nevertheless, United States soldiers harm the Japanese people. The paper concludes that Japan must explore an alternative path, rather than continuing relying on the Security Treaty. The author recommends more independent foreign policy of Japan in the 21st Century. Such recommendations include signing the peace treaty with Russia and establishing diplomatic relations with North Korea. In other words, keeping good relations with Russia and North Korea enhances Japan's security as well as Japan's diplomatic options.