The Japanese government has been pushing for a major shift in its security policy, strengthening its alliance with the United States and recognizing the right to collective self-defense. However, various opinion polls reveal a significant gap in perception between the government's policy stance and public opinion.

First, the government passed the security legislation in 2015, recognizing the right to collective self-defense. However, a March 2023 opinion poll showed a close tie between those who approve (49%) and those who disapprove (48%) of this move. The revision of the three security documents in 2022, which decided on an increase in defense spending and the acquisition of counterstrike capability, also saw an even split in opinion, with 48% approving and 48% disapproving. Regarding the three non-nuclear principles, 49% responded that they should continue to be upheld.

Meanwhile, when asked about the possibility of joint operations with the Chinese military in the future, only 13.3% answered in the affirmative. Support for the development of large-scale Aegis destroyers, which the government is urging the public to embrace, stands at a mere 26%. Support for the development of next-generation fighter jets also lags at 13%. This indicates that a majority of the public holds a negative view of the government's active military buildup policy.

Despite the deteriorating security environment, a majority of the public expressed support for relatively defensive measures, such as cooperation with allied and friendly countries (58%), strengthening missile defense systems (53%), and utilizing satellites (40%). However, a significant number oppose the government's offensive security policy, indicating a clear difference in perception between the government and the public.

Looking at the public's awareness of security policy, more than half of the respondents (58%) prioritize their identity as a "peaceful nation." The current policy stance of "taking on global responsibilities through the US alliance" is significantly different from the policy ten years ago. While a majority of the public favors traditional defense policy, the government aims to expand its role beyond the regional level through military buildup, leading to disagreements. The government's pursuit of a security policy shift appears to be too radical, resulting in limitations in public acceptance.

In short, there is a significant gap in perception between the Japanese government and the public on key security policies, including the right to collective self-defense, military cooperation with the US, and defense buildup. As the government pushes for a major shift in security policy, it will likely need to reflect and incorporate public opinion more effectively in its efforts to persuade the public.