2025，日本加速右倾的一年

Core Viewpoint - Japan is experiencing a significant political shift towards the right, driven by social and economic anxieties, as evidenced by the recent elections and the rise of far-right political forces [2][3][4]. Political Landscape - The July 2025 Senate elections marked a turning point, with the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its ally Komeito suffering losses, while the far-right party made significant gains, winning 14 seats [2]. - The election results reflect a broader societal shift towards right-wing politics, influenced by global trends [2]. - The election of Sanae Takaichi as Prime Minister represents a strategic move by the LDP to regain conservative voters amid crises [3]. Military and Defense Budget - Japan's defense budget is set to reach approximately 11 trillion yen for the 2025 fiscal year, marking a historical peak and achieving the goal of defense spending constituting 2% of GDP two years ahead of schedule [6][7]. - The focus of the defense budget includes enhancing "counterattack capabilities" and establishing new military bases in strategic locations [7]. - Legal frameworks are being adjusted to facilitate military expansion, including plans to significantly relax weapon export restrictions [7][8]. Societal Concerns - Rising social anxieties, including stagnant wages and high inflation, are contributing to a growing sense of disillusionment among the Japanese populace [4][9]. - The political climate has led to an increase in nationalist sentiments and anti-immigrant rhetoric, which far-right parties are capitalizing on [4][9]. Economic Policies - The government has proposed a comprehensive economic strategy with a spending plan of 21.3 trillion yen aimed at boosting the economy and defense spending [11]. - However, there are concerns regarding the sustainability of these policies, especially given Japan's high national debt, which stands at 250% of GDP [11]. - The potential deterioration of Japan-China relations could further complicate economic recovery efforts, as trade between the two countries exceeds 300 billion USD annually [11].