Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba speaks during a news conference at the prime minister’s official residence in Tokyo, Monday, Nov. 11, 2024.
Shigeru Ishiba, Japan’s current prime minister, has a long-standing background in Japanese politics with over three decades of experience, particularly in defense and agricultural policy. Elected to the Japanese Diet in 1986, he served in various key positions including as defense minister and agriculture minister. Known for his moderate views, Ishiba has frequently advocated for a more independent Japanese security posture, suggesting an “Asian NATO” to strengthen regional security against growing threats from North Korea and China.
Politically, Ishiba has a complex relationship with Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). He was often a critic of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and remained on the fringes of the party’s mainstream during Abe’s leadership. However, following a series of scandals under the previous administration of Fumio Kishida, Ishiba’s centrist approach gained renewed support, positioning him as a reformist choice to rebuild the LDP’s reputation.
Domestically, Ishiba’s goals include economic revitalization, particularly in rural areas, as well as addressing Japan’s demographic issues by combating the declining birthrate. In security policy, he has proposed increasing Japan’s defense capabilities and strengthening alliances with regional partners, while also balancing Japan’s reliance on the U.S. for military support. His leadership represents a shift toward the center, aiming to regain public trust in the LDP amid recent political challenges.
