Koizumi’s Mandate: the Future of Japanese Politics and Economic Reform

Corporate Lecture
11:30 am – 1 pm

Read the Event Summary.

Prime Minister Koizumi’s coalition government is widely expected to stay in power following the Lower House elections on November 9. His unexpectedly long tenure as prime minister is a welcome sign of stability and leadership, but the election results could have a significant impact on his ability to advance an aggressive agenda of reform. A failure by the Liberal Democratic Party to secure a simple majority could hurt investor confidence but also signal a move toward a two-party system, a step many feel will help Japan recover in the long run. A panel of well-known Japan-watchers give their analysis of the recent election, its effect on the economy and economic reforms, and what it means for the future of Japan’s political landscape.

Speakers
Gerald Curtis, Burgess Professor of Political Science, Columbia University
Richard Katz, Editor, The Oriental Economist

Presider
Hugh Patrick, Director, Center on Japanese Economy & Business, Columbia Business School

Agenda
11:30 am -12 pm  Registration & reception
12 – 1 pm  Lecture

Admission: Corporate members are entitled to a designated number of free admissions to this event, based on their company’s current membership level. These reservations must be made at least 48 hours prior to the event. Additional corporate registrants and Asia Society members pay the discounted corporate member rate of $10. Nonmember admission: $15.

For more information, please contact Ellie Montazeri at (212) 715-1247 or [email protected].