In 2011, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster became one of the worst nuclear accidents in history. It profoundly changed public debate about nuclear power in Japan. Yet nuclear energy remains an important part of the country’s energy policy, and politicians continue to face difficult questions about how to talk about it. But what happens when a national debate about nuclear power becomes a local election issue?
Yibo Sun’s new report looks at the manifestos of candidates in Japan’s 2024 and 2026 general elections. He asks whether candidates talk differently about nuclear power when there is a nuclear power plant in or near their constituency, and whether they are willing to depart from their party’s position. The research also looks at whether female candidates are more likely to take an anti-nuclear position.
Japan’s electoral system makes this an interesting question. Many members of parliament are elected from single-member constituencies, where candidates compete directly for votes in a specific local area. This creates a potential tension between following the national position of their party and responding to the concerns of local voters.
Following Yibo’s presentation, a discussant will provide comments on the research, placing the findings in a broader comparative perspective. The discussion will conclude with a Q&A.
This one-hour lecture is part of the LAC Asia Academy series, which brings together academic, business and government experts to deepen public understanding of contemporary developments in East, South and Southeast Asia. The event is open to everyone and offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with leading specialists on one of the most important geopolitical challenges of our time.
Preliminary Agenda
15:15-15:30 | Registration
15:30-15:35 | Welcome and introduction by the Leiden Asia Centre
15:35-16:15 | Report presentation by Yibo Sun
16:15-16:30 | Discussant
16:30-17:00 | Q&A with the audience
17:00-17:45 | Networking reception
Meer informatie: Leiden Asia Centre
