The Agenda Ahead: What Japan’s Next Leader Must Tackle Immediately

Shigeru Ishiba’s resignation clears the deck for a new leader, who will have no time to celebrate. A daunting and urgent agenda awaits them, with several critical issues that must be tackled immediately upon taking office.
Priority 1: Restore Political Stability. The first task is to unite the fractured LDP and establish a working relationship with the opposition to overcome parliamentary gridlock. Without this, no other progress is possible. Priority 2: Address the Economy. The new prime minister must immediately present a credible plan to address the cost of living crisis and reassure international markets of Japan’s economic stewardship. Priority 3: Rebuild Public Trust. A clear and decisive plan to tackle political corruption and reform party financing is essential to begin closing the massive trust deficit with the electorate. Priority 4: Manage Foreign Relations. The new leader must quickly engage with key allies like the United States and navigate the increasingly tense security situation in East Asia.
Failure to make immediate headway on these fronts could mean the next premiership is just as short and troubled as Ishiba’s.