Abstract

This article examines the evolution of local politics in the post-war era, as well as the issues and challenges that have emerged, with a particular focus on the following keywords: self-government, political succession, and ethics. Approximately 34,000 local politicians, comprising local governors, mayors, and local assembly members, bear responsibility for the oversight of local political management in Japan. The democratic structures that have been developed in Japan in the post-war period may now be exhibiting indications of deterioration at the local level. Demographic projections indicate that substantial reform of local political structures is necessary in the medium to long term to enhance the quality of life in Japan. This is a consequence of Japan’s aging population and declining birth rate, which is leading to a downsizing of local self-governments. The emergence of capable and proficient newcomers in local politics can facilitate reform of local politics. This article puts forth strategies for encouraging newcomers to engage with local politics and recommends that public policy be established to facilitate this endeavor. This is an essential measure for fostering a local society where individuals can repose their hopes for the future, overcoming the hereditary succession of local politicians and ethical issues. This article is based on literature surveys on political science and policy studies in Japanese and English. While the scope of discussion is basically in Japan, some implications might have a global application given demographic change.