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 Eric Johnston

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Eric Johnston
JAPAN
Feb 18, 2021
Hashimoto brings experience and connections in sports and politics to new role
The former Olympics minister appears to have only reluctantly accepted the post, and she may face questions about her relationship with her predecessor, Yoshiro Mori.
JAPAN
Feb 17, 2021
Shimane governor threatens to cancel participation in Olympic torch relay
The remarks could create a political domino effect among other local governors worried about their own ability to respond to increased infections if the Tokyo Games go forward.
JAPAN
Feb 16, 2021
The next boss of the Tokyo Games — a savvy operator or a fresh face?
The organizing committee says it is looking for a successor that has a certain background in the Olympics as well as a strong awareness of gender equality and inclusiveness.
JAPAN
Feb 12, 2021
How 'indispensable' Mori came to enjoy huge influence in politics and sport
The former prime minister had contacts his peers did not and the ability to get things done behind the scenes that leaders in both arenas relied on heavily.
JAPAN / Explainer
Feb 10, 2021
As China authorizes use of force by coast guard, Japan considers response
With Beijing beefing up its powers in contested areas such as the Senkaku Islands, questions have arisen over how Tokyo should handle coastal security incidents.
JAPAN
Feb 7, 2021
Tokyo Olympics head Mori says he was ready to quit over sexist remarks
When it was learned that Mori was prepared to resign, a rushed meeting was held between him and top Tokyo Olympic officials, who tearfully urged him not to quit.
JAPAN
Feb 7, 2021
With COVID-19 cases falling, Osaka may seek early end to state of emergency
Gov. Hirofumi Yoshimura is likely to decide as early as Tuesday whether to ask the central government to cancel the state of emergency for the prefecture.
JAPAN / Explainer
Feb 4, 2021
Japan's new virus law: Fines for noncompliance and support for hard-hit firms
Fines can be levied on businesses that refuse orders to shorten their hours of operation under a state of emergency and individuals who refuse to be hospitalized for the novel coronavirus.
Japan Times
JAPAN / Politics / FOCUS
Feb 3, 2021
More than four months into his term, Suga's popularity ebbs as tough decisions await
From controversial coronavirus legislation to the fate of the Tokyo Games, the prime minister's leadership ability and style is under increased scrutiny and criticism.
JAPAN
Feb 1, 2021
Mayor gives Japan's first approval for restart of reactors over 40 years old
Takahama Mayor Yutaka Nose reached his decision after receiving assurances from the government that it would boost revitalization projects and the town's funding.
JAPAN / Explainer
Jan 28, 2021
'Japan’s Marine Corps': The nation's first responders for remote island defense
The Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade was established in 2018 to respond to security situations that require faster mobilization of land, sea, and air forces.
JAPAN / Explainer
Jan 25, 2021
With bid policy set, localities in Japan roll dice on casinos
Areas interested in submitting proposals now have a clear schedule of when they can do so, and a better understanding of what they can and can't do during the selection process.
JAPAN / Explainer
Jan 20, 2021
As U.N. nuclear treaty comes into force, Japan sees different path to nonproliferation
Nuclear weapons states, as well as Japan, have refused to sign the treaty, preferring arms control treaties that they hope will lead to the elimination of all nuclear weapons.
Japan Times
JAPAN / View from Osaka
Jan 16, 2021
Kansai's 2030 vision is to think like a penguin
Kansai Economic Federation, which includes some of Kansai's largest and most influential firms, hopes to tap patrons with the spirit of a “first penguin” to revive the region's fortunes.
JAPAN / Politics / EXPLAINER
Jan 15, 2021
Indictment of ex-minister Takamori Yoshikawa puts Suga in tight spot
With public support sinking over the pandemic and questions raised over his past statements on Abe's spring party scandal, prosecution of a trusted ally only adds to Suga's woes.
Japan Times
JAPAN / Politics / FOCUS
Jan 14, 2021
Japan maintains 'pragmatic' line on Trump's incitement of Capitol siege
Even lawmakers in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party criticized their leaders after the government's top spokesperson described the situation in Washington as 'difficult.'
JAPAN / Explainer
Jan 12, 2021
Osaka expo plans quietly move forward despite cost and virus worries
There are concerns expo-related costs could greatly increase, like those for the Tokyo Olympics, and also over whether there will be adequate time to prepare.
JAPAN / Explainer
Jan 6, 2021
Legal revisions would add weight to Japan's COVID-19 response
Levying fines on businesses if they don't shut down or reduce their hours of operation runs the risk of a political backlash against the government.
JAPAN
Jan 4, 2021
Japan's carbon neutrality dilemma: More nuclear power or more renewables?
Suga's declaration the nation would achieve net zero by 2050 has touched off a debate over the best way to provide a safe, stable, secure and green energy.
JAPAN / Politics / EXPLAINER
Dec 30, 2020
Abe escapes charges but creates political problems for Suga
The former prime minister's apologies and explanation over a political spending scandal have tainted his legacy and only given rise to further questions.

Longform

A small shrine perched atop rocks braves the waves hitting the shoreline during a storm in Shimoda, Shizuoka Prefecture. The area is under threat of a possible 31-meter-high tsunami if an earthquake strikes the nearby Nankai Trough.
If the 'Big One' hits, this city could face a 31-meter-high tsunami