NEWS & EVENTS

Reflecting on the 50th anniversary of Okinawa’s reversion to Japan from U.S. rule

Dr. Kent Calder, Vice Dean for Education and Academic Affairs at The Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies | SAIS and Director of the Reischauer Center, was interviewed by the Nihon Keizai Shimbun reflecting on the 50th anniversary of Okinawa’s reversion to Japan from U.S. rule.

Dr. Calder emphasizes Okinawa’s extremely strategic location and the island’s importance in supporting the U.S. military to ensure stability in the Taiwan Strait and nearby waters. Additionally, Dr. Calder argues that it would be dangerous to reduce U.S. capabilities and presence in Okinawa but that it may be possible to relocate some military facilities to other parts in Japan. Dr. Calder also stresses that the U.S. should be cognizant of the burden Okinawa bears in hosting U.S. forces and that the scope of economic assistance and technological development programs could be broadened to bolster Okinawa’s economy and growth.

You can read the full piece here: Reflecting on the 50th anniversary of Okinawa’s reversion to Japan from U.S. rule