This book examines changing state-civil society relations in Japan with
a focus on the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Tokyo's
foreign policy. Globalization and industrial maturation have weakened
state authority and sparked the growth of NGOs in Japan. NGOs are
gaining influence in a number of areas, most prominently in aid and
development. This influence is expressed both through grassroots
pressure campaigns and by growing collaboration between NGOs and the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs. By analyzing this important new phenomenon,
the book sheds light on the changing nature of state-civil society
relations and the role of NGOs in promoting democracy.