Question

Can Japan effectively function as an alternative centre of power? Support your answer with logical explanation.

Answer 1

Years after defeat in the Second World War, Japan emerged as a developed Asian nation despite its scarce natural resources.

1. Today, it is the third largest economy in the world and is the only Asian member of the G-7.
2. It is the second largest contributor to the UN budget, contributing almost 10% of the total budget. It has had a security alliance with the US since 1951. Per Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution, to renounce war as a sovereign right of the nation and the threat or use of force as a means of settling international disputes.
3. Although Japan’s military expenditure is only 1% of its GDP, it is the seventh largest in the world.
4. Japanese brands such as Sony, Panasonic, Suzuki, and Toyota have a reputation for making high-technology products.
5. Japan became a member of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in 1964.
6. It is the eleventh most populous nation in the world. If it develops strategic relations with the other powerful Asian nations, Japan may become an alternative centre of power in the world.