The Globalist The effects of Japan’s upper-house elections on a fragile economy
Jul 21, 2025
Join Julian Ryle, a Daily Telegraph correspondent in Japan, as he dissects Japan's recent upper-house elections and the implications of a minority government on the economy and international trade. Katerina Barley, Vice President of the European Parliament, discusses the growing challenges to democracy in Europe amid economic pressures, while Yasmin Abdel-Majid provides critical insights on Sudan's turbulent recovery and ongoing conflict. Together, they explore the intersections of politics, economics, and societal change in today's global landscape.
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Japan's Political Earthquake
- Japan's governing coalition lost the majority in the upper house for the first time since 1955.
- This political shift signals fragmentation and rise of far-right nationalist parties like Sanseito.
Rise of Far-Right Nationalists
- Sanseito and similar far-right parties campaign on "Japan first" and anti-immigration platforms.
- They are inspired by MAGA and European right-wing movements, resonating with fears over national identity and social order.
Ishiba Faces Economic Battle
- Japan’s prime minister Shigeru Ishiba remains in power to manage difficult economic and trade challenges, especially tariffs by Trump due August 1.
- Right-wing challenger Sanae Takeuchi is positioning to unseat him, signaling potential nationalist shift.