Proactive Pacifism and Beyond: Japan’s Foreign and Security Policy Pivots to Pragmatism Replacing Idealism

In 2013, Japan introduced a new normative concept, the ‘proactive contribution to peace’, in its National Security Strategy (NSS) to distinguish this approach from its traditionally passive pacifist policy. Since then, the term has defined Japan’s engagement with nations across the Indo-Pacific and the broader international community. Adopted under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (2012–2020), this policy was further expanded under Fumio Kishida (2021–2024), as reflected in the 2022 NSS and subsequent foreign and security policy documents. What exactly does a ‘proactive contribution to peace’ entail? Why was such a policy shift deemed necessary, how has Japan implemented it, and what motivated Kishida to deepen this political discourse? Moreover, did this narrative change under the short-lived Shigeru Ishiba administration (2024–2025), or how is it likely to evolve under Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi? This article argues that Japan is now assuming more active international roles, building global defence networks and shaping global political dynamics. Given the increasingly complex and deteriorating strategic environment in and around Japan, Tokyo has shifted away from its historically passive stance and adopted a proactive policy characterised by higher defence spending and enhanced military capabilities. This shift represents a reinterpretation rather than a rejection of its post-war pacifist constitution, replacing idealism with a more pragmatic realism. Additionally, pressure from the second Trump administration has further encouraged Japan to increase defence spending and take a more active regional role.