A Consideration of Japan's Participation in International Military Operations: Elaborating the Normative Principles of Just War Theory

This dissertation focuses on answering whether the Government of Japan considered the normative principles of Just War Theory when deciding to participate in international military operations. Just War Theory, which has its origins in Ancient Rome and influenced to international law on war, has been developed to explain the elements which government leaders and soldiers must observe when participating in international military operations. By focusing on the importance of considering the normative principles of Just War Theory, this dissertation examines whether the Government of Japan considered the normative principles when decided to participate in the 2001 Afghanistan War and the 2003 Iraqi War. It also examines whether the government considered the normative principles of Just War Theory when enacting Japan’s Legislation for Peace and Security because it enables Japan to participate in international military operations without enacting any temporary statutes as had been required before.

By examining whether the perspectives of the Government of Japan on participating in recent international military operations accord with the normative principles of Just War Theory, this dissertation points out the contribution and the necessity for further study in the two different fields of study, Japanese Studies and jurisprudence, because there have been several international conflicts between Japan and its neighbouring countries, such as China, North Korea, South Korea, and Russia. This dissertation, therefore, offers a guideline for Japan in seeking to resolve international conflicts with those countries, so as to maintain peace and order in international society.