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.
Policy implications
- Policymakers and academics should recognize the evolving nature of Japan's Indo-Pacific strategy, as its policy objectives and methods have shifted in response to Japan's strategic position in regional and global contexts.
- Scholars and practitioners should understand that while Japan's Indo-Pacific strategy has consistently prioritized the rule of law, its approach to addressing security concerns has shifted due to regional and global factors, particularly its diplomatic relations with ASEAN and China.
- Academics and practitioners should acknowledge that Japan's Indo-Pacific strategy, which complements the US strategy of balancing and containing China by encouraging developing countries to align with US-led groupings, functions as Japan's central diplomatic framework for upholding the liberal international order.
- Policymakers in advanced nations must focus on attracting countries in the Global South by countering China's multifaceted strategies to strengthen its international presence and influence. To do so, they need to recognize the importance of employing inclusiveness and diversity—principles that resonate with developing countries—when formulating and implementing diplomatic strategies toward the Global South.
- Academics and practitioners should acknowledge that Japan must continuously encourage China to contribute to maintaining the international order by developing dialogue mechanisms and leveraging connections established through influential politicians and business groups.
Photo by Pok Rie