Counter-Terrorism in a Pacifist Country: Japan’s Case

This article examines the effects of terrorist groups in Japan during the latter part ofthe 1990s on issues such as national security, social structures, and religion. In additionto being a leading economy and academic research centre, Japan is one of the world’s topcountries regarding tolerance, respect, and social harmony. However, Japan’s economicsuccess has resulted not only in prosperity yet in some social unease and unrest. Althoughthe murder of Abe Shinzo in June 2022 has become the country’s top agenda item, there isnot enough literature on domestic terrorism in Japan. There were two terrorist organizationsin Japan (the AUM and the Japan Red Army). Their dreadful political and military repercussionsare still being felt today. At first impression, it appears that Japan approachesthe fight against terrorism from a human security perspective rather than a governmentalconcern. Human security evolved due to the alteration of traditional security attitudesfollowing the Cold War’s conclusion and the investigation of new security challengesbased on individualizing the sources of insecurity. However, how can it be explained thatJapan’s security concerns were primarily focused on human security throughout the ColdWar? Because of its unique status, the perception of terrorism and the struggle againstterrorism in a pacifist culture are exceptional cases.