Publication

This paper examines Japan's right to collective self-defense (CSD) and what impact this would have on US-Japan security cooperation. The author argues that the tangible short-term outcomes of adopting CSD are likely modest, but that the mid- to long-term results are dependent on changes in complementary policies, laws and attitudes. He concludes that, if Japan decides to exercise CSD, US leaders should understand that the decision is an altruistic one and that Tokyo will likely exercise its new right responsibly.