menu_open Columnists
Peter Chai

Peter Chai

The Diplomat

We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

Sleepless at the Top: Takaichi’s Work Ethic Highlights Japan’s Overwork Problem

Overwork and karoshi – death from overwork – remain deeply sensitive issues in Japan.

latest 0

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

Japan’s Takaichi Pushes Stricter Rules on Foreign Nationals

Regulations for foreign nationals in Japan became a major topic of debate in this year’s election. The new government is acting accordingly.

13.11.2025 9

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

Japan’s New Government Boasts High Approval Ratings

New Prime Minister Takaichi enjoys far more support than her immediate predecessors in the early stages of their terms.

05.11.2025 5

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

Takaichi’s Ambitious Economic and Security Agenda for Japan

In her first policy speech, Japan’s new prime minister made big promises that hinge on big spending.

29.10.2025 2

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

LDP, Nippon Ishin Coalition Agreement Locks in Takaichi’s Prime Minister Victory

The LDP found a new coalition partner, but Prime Minister Takaichi is still short of a majority in the lower house.

21.10.2025 2

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

The ‘Demon Slayer’ Phenomenon and Japan’s Evolving Anime Industry

The franchise's success reflects the growing size – and evolving nature – of Japan’s anime industry in recent years.

13.09.2025 20

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

The Top Priority for Japan’s Next Prime Minister: The Economy

It will be difficult to truly address Japan’s inflation and debt woes given the fragile political environment. 

10.09.2025 3

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

Prince Hisahito and Japan’s Imperial Future

Hisahito’s position as the only eligible male heir to the Chrysanthemum Throne has generated intense interest in his life – and public debate...

05.09.2025 5

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

Court Rulings and Public Opinion on Same-Sex Marriage in Japan

A long string of court rulings has upheld the right to same-sex marriage. How have these judgments interested with public opinion?

28.08.2025 2

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

Prime Minister Ishiba’s Balancing Act on WW2 Remembrance

The Japanese leader revived the phrase “remorse” in his remarks, while also seeking to appease conservative members of the LDP. 

20.08.2025 9

The Diplomat

Peter Chai

Beyond Sanseito: Anti-Immigrant Rhetoric in Japan’s Upper House Election

Japan’s upper house election in July 2025 drew widespread attention to Sanseito , a right-wing party that campaigned using anti-foreigner...

16.08.2025 30

The Diplomat

Peter Chai