The Democratic Party of Japan in Power

This insightful book analyzes the Democratic Party of Japan's administration, exploring its policies, challenges, and eventual downfall, providing essential lessons for future political landscapes.

This book provides a comprehensive examination of the administration of the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) from September 2009 to December 2012, analyzing it through various lenses such as policies, party governance, and its enduring legacy. When the DPJ ascended to power, there was a palpable sense of hope among Japanese citizens for a new political landscape, one that promised a shift towards a two-party system. However, the administration faced significant challenges, including the catastrophic events of March 2011 and internal turmoil stemming from contentious policies and a controversial consumption tax hike that led to numerous party defections.

The Democratic Party of Japan in Power delves into the factors that contributed to the DPJ's decline, culminating in a significant defeat in the 2012 Lower House election, which saw the party's representation drastically diminished. The contributors, comprising a team of academics and a lawyer, provide a detailed analysis of the DPJ's policies and pivotal events, drawing on interviews with key political figures and insiders from that era. Their insights reveal the complexities of the DPJ's governance and its implications for the future of political parties in Japan.

The book underscores the long-term significance of the DPJ's failures for understanding contemporary Japanese politics. It serves as an essential resource for students and scholars alike, offering valuable lessons on party democracy and the evolving political landscape in Japan.