Japan's Peacekeeping at a Crossroads: Taking a Robust Stance or Remaining Hesitant?

Japan had deployed its troops as UN peacekeepers since 1992, but in 2017, it withdrew its engineering corps from South Sudan and has contributed no troops since then. The book argues that Japan could not match the increasing "robustness" of recent peacekeeping operations and has begun to seek a new direction, such as capacity-building support.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This open-access book delves into the compelling reasons behind Japan's decision to discontinue its quarter-century-long history of troop contributions to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (1992-2017). Having deployed its troops as UN peacekeepers since 1992, albeit with a constitutional restriction on weapons use, Japan's peacekeeping efforts gradually shifted focus towards engineering work, leveraging its strengths in this domain. While Japan attempted to loosen the constraints on weapons use to a limited extent, it recognized the need to adapt to the evolving demands of modern peacekeeping operations.

However, a significant turning point occurred in 2017 when Japan abruptly withdrew its engineering corps from South Sudan, effectively ending its troop contributions to UN peacekeeping operations. The book argues that Japan faced challenges in meeting the increasing "robustness" of recent peacekeeping missions, necessitating a search for new avenues to contribute effectively. One such direction is the provision of capacity-building support, aimed at enhancing the capabilities and effectiveness of peacekeeping forces worldwide.

The decision to withdraw from South Sudan raises several intriguing questions. Why did Japan choose to prioritize its own security interests over its commitment to international peace and security? What factors influenced Japan's decision to shift its focus away from troop contributions? How will this change in strategy impact the future of UN peacekeeping operations?

The book provides valuable insights into these questions and sheds light on Japan's evolving approach to peacekeeping. It underscores the importance of adaptability and flexibility in responding to the changing dynamics of global security challenges. By exploring the reasons behind Japan's decision to discontinue its troop contributions, this book contributes to a broader understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by peacekeeping operations and the role of countries like Japan in shaping the future of international peace and security.

Weight: 351g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030885113
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022