The Development of Japan's Indo-Pacific Strategy: Security Concerns and Instrumental Principles

Abstract

The Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) has served as Japan's central diplomatic vision since its launch in 2016. This paper examines how and why Japan's FOIP has evolved in response to changing strategic environments since its inception. This paper addresses this question by examining the three versions of FOIP and analyzing the evolving positions of key components in terms of policy objectives and means, from its inception under the Abe administration in the summer of 2016 to its modification under the Kishida administration through the fall of 2024. It argues that, while promoting the rule of law has consistently remained a core policy objective, an emphasis on addressing security concerns has varied across different phases of FOIP's evolution. Furthermore, the paper asserts that fundamental values were de-emphasized as instrumental components, whereas inclusiveness and diversity gained prominence as guiding principles for achieving FOIP's goals. These shifts were shaped by Japan's relationships with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China, as well as by global factors including the Ukraine War and the increasing importance of the Global South. Through its FOIP, Japan must actively encourage greater participation from developing countries in the Global South to uphold the liberal international order.