UNAIR NEWS The Department of Japanese Language and Literature at Faculty of Humanities (FIB) (UNAIR) organized a seminar titled Modern Japanese Politics and Youth Engagement on Monday (March 17, 2025). The event featured Nakagome Kota, Vice-Consul for Information, Education, and Culture at the Consulate-General of Japan in Surabaya, as the keynote speaker. The seminar took place in the Siti Parwati Room, 2nd Floor of FIB UNAIR, with Dr. Syahrur Marta Dwi Susilo, a faculty member of FIB UNAIR, serving as the moderator.
During his presentation, Nakagome explained that Japan檚 political system is built upon three fundamental pillars: popular sovereignty, respect for human rights, and a commitment to global peace. The Japanese Constitution, in effect since 1947, defines the structure of government, the Emperor檚 role as a symbol of unity, and the functions of both the House of Councillors and the House of Representatives. 淯nderstanding Japan檚 constitution is the first step in comprehending the country檚 political dynamics, he stated.
Key differences between Japanese and Indonesian political systems
Nakagome also highlighted key differences between the political systems of Japan and Indonesia. In Japan, the Prime Minister is not directly elected by the public but is instead chosen by members of the House of Representatives. Additionally, the Cabinet has the authority to dissolve the House of Representatives if it no longer reflects the will of the people. 淭he House of Representatives is more reflective of the public檚 voice as its members are elected through general elections, he explained.
He further elaborated on how Japan檚 legislative system operates. While the Japanese Constitution serves as the foundation for all legal frameworks, additional laws are enacted by the National Diet. Nakagome also underscored the differences in authority, tenure, and election mechanisms between the House of Councillors and the House of Representatives. 淭he House of Representatives can be dissolved by the Cabinet, whereas the House of Councillors has a fixed term, ensuring a balance within the government system, he added.
For students interested in exploring Japanese politics further, Nakagome recommended reading the English translation of Japan檚 constitution, which is available through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. 淓ven if you do not speak Japanese, you can still gain insight into Japan檚 political system by referring to official documents in English, he advised.
Author: Ameyliarti Bunga Lestari Editor: Edwin Fatahuddin
