US-Japan Security Treaties: Formation, Evolution and Consequences

Abstract

This study examines the formation, evolution and consequences of the US-Japan post-war security relations. Since the end of World War II the close US-Japan security relationship has benefited both nations. Japan relies on the US for protection from outside attacks by either conventional or nuclear forces. In turn, under the terms of the security treaty, Tokyo lends military bases on Japanese soil to American forces. In this context, Japan has been able to concentrate on rebuilding its economy with relatively little concern for its own defense. But both Tokyo and Washington have begun to reassess their security requirements in view of changing global threats in the post-cold war era.

Keywords

Security, Japan, US, East Asian Region, Global Threats

Citation

Gönen, Hakan, “US-Japan Security Treaties: Formation, Evolution and Consequences”, International Relations, Volume 1, Issue 4 (Winter 2004), pp. 115-139.

Affiliations

• Hakan Gönen, Research Assistant, Ankara University, Institute of Social Sciences, Department of International Relations