The Territory of Japan: Its History and Legal Basis

The legal and historical bases of Japan's territory as a modern state from the Meiji period to 2002 are examined in this book, including the Potsdam Declaration and the Treaty of Peace with Japan. It discusses the current status of territorial topics such as the Northern Territories, the Senkaku Islands, and Takeshima and suggests peaceful methods to address them. It also touches upon postwar concepts defining modern international law and relevant rules on these subjects.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 185 pages
Publication date: 10 July 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive Open Access book delves into the intricate legal and historical foundations of Japan as a modern state, spanning from the Meiji period to 2002. A fresh preface provides a concise summary of significant developments up to 2022.

The present territory of Japan is established by the Potsdam Declaration (1945) and the Treaty of Peace with Japan (1951). It encompasses the Northern Territories, the Senkaku Islands, and Takeshima. Japan has persistently sought the return of the Northern Territories, which include the islands of Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan, and Habomai, currently occupied by Russia. Meanwhile, China asserts sovereignty over the Senkaku Islands, while Japan claims sovereignty over Takeshima, which is under the occupation of the Republic of Korea.

In this book, a thorough analysis is conducted to examine the current status of these territorial matters, drawing upon historical documents and international legal precedents. It proposes peaceful resolutions to address these issues, touching upon postwar concepts defining modern international law, such as exclusive economic zones (EEZs), continental shelves, and air defense identification zones (ADIZs). These concepts are found in international treaties, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and are further reinforced by relevant domestic laws.

This comprehensive work offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of territorial disputes, providing a comprehensive understanding of the legal and historical context surrounding Japan's territorial claims. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and individuals interested in exploring the intricacies of international law and territorial sovereignty.

Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789819930159
Edition number: 2nd ed. 2023