ILIGAN MEDICAL CENTER COLLEGE

Isabel Village, Pala-o, Iligan City

GRADUATE SCHOOL
Group 1 Subject: Introduction To Public Management
Nosair A. Aloyodan Instructor: Dr. Ernesto O. Ilago
Karen Gay P. Dy
Dominica Desiree Inocencio
Jericho Jemuel M. Reyes

CASE STUDY

JAPAN, known as the "Land of the Rising Sun,"

is an island nation in East Asia. It is renowned for its

rich cultural heritage, advanced technology, and unique

blend of traditional and modern lifestyles. Japan’s

strategic location, robust economy, and global

influence make it a pivotal player in international

relations.

Geography Japan is an archipelago comprising 6,852 islands, with the four largest being Honshu,

Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. It is situated in the Pacific Ocean, east of the Korean Peninsula

and China. The country covers an area of approximately 377,975 square kilometers, making it

slightly smaller than California. Japan’s terrain is predominantly mountainous, with only 12% of

the land suitable for agriculture.

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The country experiences a temperate climate, with variations ranging from humid subtropical in

the south to cool temperate in the north. Natural phenomena such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and

typhoons are common due to Japan's location along the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Demographics As of 2024, Japan’s population is approximately 125 million, making it the 11th

most populous country in the world. The majority of the population is ethnically Japanese, with

small minorities of Koreans, Chinese, and indigenous groups such as the Ainu and Ryukyuan

people. The population is concentrated in urban areas, particularly in megacities like Tokyo,

Osaka, and Nagoya.

Japan faces significant demographic challenges, including an aging population and declining birth

rates. Nearly 30% of the population is aged 65 and above, which poses economic and social

challenges.

Economy Japan is the third-largest economy in the world by nominal GDP, with strengths in

manufacturing, technology, and finance. Key industries include automotive, electronics, robotics,

and pharmaceuticals. Major companies such as Toyota, Sony, and Nintendo have global

recognition.

The country is also a leader in innovation, investing heavily in research and development.

However, Japan’s economy faces challenges such as a shrinking labor force, high public debt, and

deflationary pressures.

Politics and Government Japan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary government.

The Emperor serves as a ceremonial figurehead, while political power is vested in the Prime

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Minister and the National Diet (parliament). The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has been the

dominant political force for much of the post-World War II era.

Japan maintains a pacifist constitution, particularly Article 9, which renounces war. However, it

has a well-equipped Self-Defense Force and is a close ally of the United States.

Culture and Society Japanese culture is a unique blend of traditional and modern elements.

Traditional arts such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and kabuki coexist with contemporary trends

in fashion, anime, and technology. Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi, ramen, and tempura, is

celebrated worldwide.

Japan places a high value on education, discipline, and social harmony. The country boasts a

literacy rate of nearly 100% and a highly skilled workforce.

Tourism Japan is a top tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. Key attractions

include:

 Historical sites like Kyoto’s temples and Nara’s ancient shrines.

 Modern landmarks such as Tokyo Skytree and Osaka’s Universal Studios.

 Natural beauty spots like Mount Fuji, cherry blossom parks, and hot spring resorts.

References

1. National Geographic Society. (n.d.). Japan geography and climate. Retrieved from
https://www.nationalgeographic.org
2. World Bank. (n.d.). Economic overview of Japan. Retrieved from
https://data.worldbank.org
3. United Nations Population Division. (2024). Demographics of Japan 2024. Retrieved
from https://www.un.org
4. Japan Foundation. (n.d.). Japanese culture and society. Retrieved from
https://www.jpf.go.jp

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 5. Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). (n.d.). Tourism statistics of Japan.
Retrieved from https://www.jnto.go.jp
6. BBC. (n.d.). Politics of Japan. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com

LONG-TERM DEVELOPMENTAL GOALS OF JAPAN Japan has outlined a

series of long-term developmental goals aimed at ensuring sustainable growth, social stability, and

global leadership. These goals align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs) and address pressing challenges such as an aging population, climate change, and

economic competitiveness. Below is a detailed exploration of Japan’s developmental objectives:

Sustainable Economic Growth

o Japan aims to transition to a more

sustainable economic model by promoting

innovation, digital transformation, and green

technologies. Initiatives such as "Society 5.0"

envision a super-smart society where digital

and physical spaces are seamlessly integrated

to enhance productivity and quality of life.

o Investment in research and

development (R&D) remains a priority, with a focus on robotics, artificial

intelligence (AI), and biotechnology to maintain global competitiveness.

2. Addressing Demographic Challenges

o To mitigate the impacts of an aging population and declining birth rates, Japan is

promoting policies to increase workforce participation among women and older

adults.

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 o Immigration reform and programs to attract skilled foreign workers are being

developed to sustain economic activity.

3. Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability

o Japan has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Key strategies include

transitioning to renewable energy sources, promoting energy efficiency, and

advancing hydrogen energy technologies.

o The government is implementing measures to protect biodiversity, reduce plastic

waste, and improve disaster resilience in the face of climate-related risks.

4. Advancing Education and Human Capital

o Japan is reforming its education system to foster creativity, critical thinking, and

digital literacy. This includes integrating coding and AI training into school

curricula.

o Lifelong learning opportunities are being expanded to enable workers to adapt to

rapidly changing industries and technologies.

5. Strengthening Infrastructure and Connectivity

o Japan plans to modernize its infrastructure to support a digital and green economy.

High-speed rail networks, smart cities, and resilient transportation systems are key

focus areas.

o Efforts are underway to enhance rural-urban connectivity to address regional

disparities and revitalize local economies.

6. Global Leadership and Diplomacy

o As a key player in international organizations, Japan is committed to promoting

peace, security, and multilateral cooperation. This includes leadership in climate

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 negotiations and support for developing countries through Official Development

Assistance (ODA).

o Japan seeks to strengthen regional ties in Asia-Pacific and promote free trade

agreements like the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific

Partnership (CPTPP).

References

1. National Geographic Society. (n.d.). Japan geography and climate. Retrieved from
https://www.nationalgeographic.org
2. World Bank. (n.d.). Economic overview of Japan. Retrieved from
https://data.worldbank.org
3. United Nations Population Division. (2024). Demographics of Japan 2024. Retrieved
from https://www.un.org
4. Japan Foundation. (n.d.). Japanese culture and society. Retrieved from
https://www.jpf.go.jp
5. Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). (n.d.). Tourism statistics of Japan.
Retrieved from https://www.jnto.go.jp
6. Ministry of the Environment, Japan. (2023). Japan’s environmental policies. Retrieved
from https://www.env.go.jp
7. Cabinet Office, Japan. (2023). Society 5.0: Realizing a super-smart society. Retrieved
from https://www.cao.go.jp
8. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (n.d.). Japan and the SDGs. Retrieved
from https://www.undp.org

GOVERNMENT FUNCTIONS AND

STRUCTURES Japan operates as a constitutional

monarchy with a parliamentary government. The

country's political system is characterized by a balance

between traditional institutions and modern

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democratic principles. Below is a detailed overview of Japan’s government functions and

structures:

1. The Emperor

o The Emperor of Japan is a symbolic figurehead with no governing powers. As

defined by the Constitution of Japan (1947), the Emperor "shall perform only such

acts in matters of state as are provided for in the Constitution." These acts include

ceremonial duties such as the opening of the National Diet, promulgating laws, and

appointing the Prime Minister and Chief Justice as designated by the Diet.

2. Executive Branch

o The Prime Minister serves as the head of government and holds the highest

executive authority. The Prime Minister is elected by the National Diet and is

responsible for appointing cabinet members.

o The Cabinet, composed of the Prime Minister and appointed ministers, is

responsible for executing laws, managing government operations, and directing

foreign and domestic policies. Cabinet members are primarily selected from the

Diet, ensuring close legislative-executive coordination.

3. Legislative Branch

o Japan's legislature, the National Diet, is bicameral, consisting of the House of

Representatives (lower house) and the House of Councillors (upper house).

 The House of Representatives has 465 members elected for four-year terms.

It holds greater legislative power, including the ability to override decisions

by the House of Councillors.

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  The House of Councillors has 245 members elected for six-year terms, with

half the seats up for election every three years.

o The Diet enacts laws, approves the national budget, and ratifies international

treaties. It also holds the authority to designate the Prime Minister.

4. Judicial Branch

o The judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches. The highest

judicial authority is the Supreme Court, which oversees constitutional interpretation

and ensures the legality of laws and government actions.

o The judicial system includes lower courts such as high courts, district courts, family

courts, and summary courts. Judges are appointed by the Cabinet and serve ten-

year terms, with the possibility of reappointment.

5. Local Government

o Japan is divided into 47 prefectures, each governed by an elected governor and

legislature. Prefectures enjoy significant autonomy in areas such as education,

public safety, and infrastructure development.

o Municipalities, including cities, towns, and villages, operate under the prefectural

governments and manage local services such as public utilities, transportation, and

welfare programs.

6. Political Parties

o Japan has a multi-party system, with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) being the

dominant political force since its establishment in 1955. Other significant parties

include the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP) and the Komeito party.

o Political parties play a central role in policy-making and the functioning of the Diet.

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 7. Checks and Balances

o The Constitution establishes a clear separation of powers among the legislative,

executive, and judicial branches. Regular elections, judicial review, and

constitutional safeguards ensure accountability and prevent the concentration of

power.

8. International Relations and Defense

o Japan maintains a pacifist stance under Article 9 of the Constitution, which

renounces war as a means of settling international disputes. However, it possesses

a Self-Defense Force (SDF) for national security and disaster response.

o The government actively participates in international organizations such as the

United Nations and pursues diplomacy to foster global peace and economic

cooperation.

References

1. Cabinet Office, Japan. (n.d.). Functions of the Japanese government. Retrieved from
https://www.cao.go.jp
2. National Diet Library. (n.d.). Overview of the National Diet. Retrieved from
https://www.ndl.go.jp
3. Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan. (n.d.). Local government
system in Japan. Retrieved from https://www.soumu.go.jp
4. Supreme Court of Japan. (n.d.). Judicial system of Japan. Retrieved from
https://www.courts.go.jp
5. BBC. (n.d.). Politics of Japan. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com
6. Constitutional Law of Japan. (1947). Constitution of Japan. Retrieved from
https://japan.kantei.go.jp
7. Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan. (n.d.). Japan’s role in international relations.
Retrieved from https://www.mofa.go.jp

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ISSUES AND SPECIAL PROBLEMS IN GOOD GOVERNANCE Japan’s

governance, while often lauded for stability and efficiency, faces several challenges and special

issues that affect the effectiveness and perception of its political and administrative systems. Below

are key issues related to governance in Japan:

1. Aging Population and Workforce

Decline

o Japan has one of the oldest

populations globally, with nearly

30% of citizens aged 65 or older.

This demographic shift strains

public resources such as healthcare,

pensions, and social services.

o A declining workforce affects economic productivity and increases dependency

ratios, necessitating policy innovations in immigration and workforce participation.

2. Bureaucratic Overreach and Inefficiency

o The Japanese bureaucratic system is highly influential in policy-making, sometimes

overshadowing elected officials. Critics argue that excessive bureaucratic control

can slow decision-making and hinder reforms.

o Resistance to change within bureaucratic institutions often delays the

implementation of innovative policies, particularly in technology and

sustainability.

3. Political Apathy and Low Voter Turnout

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 o Japan has experienced declining voter turnout in elections, with younger

generations particularly disengaged. This trend raises concerns about the

representativeness and legitimacy of the political system.

o Political apathy is partly attributed to the dominance of the LDP, which has reduced

perceived competition and diversity in political discourse.

4. Corruption and Scandals

o Japan has faced political scandals involving corruption, bribery, and

mismanagement. These incidents undermine public trust in government institutions

and officials.

o Although Japan ranks relatively high on global transparency indices, continuous

efforts are needed to improve accountability and combat corruption.

5. Regional Disparities

o Economic and social inequalities exist between urban centers like Tokyo and rural

regions. Rural areas face depopulation, declining public services, and limited

economic opportunities.

o Addressing these disparities requires targeted investments in regional development

and infrastructure.

6. Challenges in Environmental Governance

o Despite ambitious climate goals, Japan faces difficulties in transitioning away from

fossil fuels. The reliance on coal-fired power plants and delays in renewable energy

adoption present obstacles to achieving carbon neutrality.

o Public opposition to nuclear energy, following the Fukushima disaster, complicates

energy policy planning.

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 7. Gender Inequality

o Gender disparities persist in political representation, workforce participation, and

leadership roles. Women hold only a small fraction of parliamentary seats and

corporate executive positions.

o Efforts to promote gender equality through policies such as workplace reforms and

childcare support have shown limited progress.

8. Natural Disaster Preparedness

o Japan’s geographic location makes it vulnerable to earthquakes, tsunamis, and

typhoons. While disaster response systems are robust, the increasing frequency and

intensity of natural disasters require enhanced resilience planning.

o Urban planning and infrastructure development must prioritize disaster risk

reduction.

References

1. Cabinet Office, Japan. (n.d.). Functions of the Japanese government. Retrieved from
https://www.cao.go.jp
2. National Diet Library. (n.d.). Overview of the National Diet. Retrieved from
https://www.ndl.go.jp
3. Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan. (n.d.). Local government
system in Japan. Retrieved from https://www.soumu.go.jp
4. Supreme Court of Japan. (n.d.). Judicial system of Japan. Retrieved from
https://www.courts.go.jp
5. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan. (2023). Aging population policies.
Retrieved from https://www.mhlw.go.jp
6. Transparency International. (2023). Corruption perceptions index: Japan. Retrieved from
https://www.transparency.org
7. Ministry of the Environment, Japan. (2023). Environmental policies and challenges.
Retrieved from https://www.env.go.jp
8. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (n.d.). Gender equality in Japan.
Retrieved from https://www.undp.org
9. Japan Meteorological Agency. (n.d.). Disaster preparedness in Japan. Retrieved from
https://www.jma.go.jp

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ANALYSIS, FINDINGS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Analysis

Japan's governance system is marked by its strengths in stability, rule of law, and a strong

bureaucratic tradition. However, underlying challenges, such as demographic shifts, political

disengagement, and environmental concerns, pose risks to its long-term governance efficiency and

effectiveness. The systemic reliance on bureaucratic institutions, while ensuring continuity, can

hinder responsiveness to emerging challenges.

Key findings suggest that political apathy and regional disparities exacerbate societal divides,
while gender inequality and corruption undermine inclusivity and public trust. Furthermore,
environmental governance and disaster preparedness require significant advancements to align
with Japan's global commitments and domestic needs.

Findings

1. Demographics: An aging population and declining workforce severely strain public

resources and economic growth.

2. Bureaucratic Challenges: Excessive control by bureaucratic institutions limits innovative

policy-making.

3. Political Apathy: Low voter turnout reflects declining public trust and engagement in the

political process.

4. Corruption: Periodic scandals highlight gaps in accountability and governance.

5. Environmental and Disaster Risks: Challenges in transitioning to renewable energy and

enhancing disaster resilience remain critical.

6. Gender Disparities: Persistent gender inequality limits societal progress and workforce

diversity.

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Recommendations

1. Demographic Policies: Implement comprehensive immigration reforms and incentivize

higher workforce participation among women and older citizens.

2. Bureaucratic Reforms: Introduce mechanisms to foster transparency and flexibility in

bureaucratic processes to improve responsiveness.

3. Civic Engagement: Promote voter education campaigns and reforms to enhance political

engagement among younger populations.

4. Anti-Corruption Measures: Strengthen whistleblower protections and enhance oversight

mechanisms to address corruption effectively.

5. Environmental Transition: Accelerate renewable energy adoption and invest in green

technologies to meet carbon neutrality goals.

6. Disaster Preparedness: Develop innovative urban planning strategies and allocate

resources for enhanced disaster resilience.

7. Gender Equality: Enforce stricter gender quotas in politics and corporate sectors and

provide robust childcare support to enable workforce participation.

References

1. Cabinet Office, Japan. (n.d.). Functions of the Japanese government. Retrieved from
https://www.cao.go.jp
2. National Diet Library. (n.d.). Overview of the National Diet. Retrieved from
https://www.ndl.go.jp
3. Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan. (n.d.). Local government

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INSIGHTS

Japan's long-term development goals have a significant impact on good governance at global,
national, and local levels, shaping the way we think about leadership and community well-being
in a rapidly changing world.

Global Impact. On a global scale, Japan is stepping up to be a leader in tackling major challenges

like climate change and economic inequality. By aligning its goals with the United Nations’

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Japan is not just focusing on its own future but

encouraging other countries to join in on the journey toward sustainability and innovation. This

global cooperation helps countries understand that we're all in this together, promoting shared

responsibilities and collaborative efforts to solve the pressing issues we face.

National Impact. Nationally, Japan's commitment to governance reforms and societal well-being

means that the government is working hard to be more responsive and accountable to its citizens.

With an aging population and economic challenges at the forefront, effective governance becomes

essential to ensure everyone has access to the social services they need. Japan's focus on digital

transformation isn't just about technology; it's about making it easier for people to get involved

and engage with their government. This creates a more connected society where citizens feel they

have a voice and a stake in decision-making.

Local Impact. On the local level, Japan’s developmental goals translate into practical strategies

that address the unique needs of communities. For instance, given the frequent natural disasters it

faces, local governments are working to enhance their disaster preparedness. By embracing

innovation and sustainable practices, they can respond more effectively to emergencies and ensure

that they are meeting the needs of their residents. Community engagement plays a crucial role

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here, as initiatives that encourage local participation foster a sense of belonging and ownership

among residents, ultimately strengthening the fabric of governance at the grassroots level.

Issues and Special Problems. However, Japan is not without its challenges. The demographic

decline and economic pressures strain resources and governance, requiring a thoughtful and

adaptable approach. Additionally, as technology advances, data privacy and security concerns

arise, adding another layer of complexity to governance.

It’s also important to ensure that everyone benefits from these developmental initiatives, especially

vulnerable populations. Inclusivity is key to maintaining social harmony and ensuring that

governance efforts don’t inadvertently create more inequality

In summary, Japan’s long-term development goals profoundly shape good governance across

various levels. While these goals promote sustainable practices and innovation, they also present

challenges that necessitate clever and inclusive governance strategies. Japan’s approach offers

valuable insights for other nations, showing how proactive governance can address current issues

while preparing for the future. Ultimately, the relationship between Japan's aspirations and

governance frameworks opens up important conversations about what effective governance looks

like in our interconnected world.

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