Publications

Challenges Facing Japan’s Social Security System

Lessons for Germany / Europe

The report assesses where Japan stands in terms of demographics, both current and forecast, and then looks at the making and coming of age of Japan’s Social Security Systems and its “welfare state”, reviewing its social security systems and the benefits and services its people need to “live healthy and secure lives”, the purpose of social security.

Japan's Energy Security, Decarbonisation, and the Green Transformation (GX)

In this report, Dr Lorenz Granrath outlines Japan’s energy policy framework and challenges of balancing energy security and rapid decarbonization with rising electricity demand.

DX: Japan’s Digital Transformation Strategy

Digitalization of state, industry and administration

This report outlines both structural hurdles and standout success stories of Japan’s digital transformation strategy – from the early days of mobile internet to the current shift toward SaaS and AI.

4 I’s Explanation of Korea’s ODA Policy

Identity, Interests, Ideas, and Institutions

Double Turning Point

Japan’s Lower House Elects Sanae Takaichi as Prime Minister

For the first time in Japanese history, a woman is leading the government of the island nation. Takaichi is considered a conservative hardliner who, only in early October, was elected LDP party leader on her third attempt. Expectations within the party for her are as high as they are numerous. In addition, she must align the LDP after 26 years with a new coalition partner, the Innovation Party.

Japan: A resounding defeat for the government

For the first time in twelve years, the ruling coalition of LDP and Kōmeitō has lost its majority in Japan's Upper House

Japan is entering a phase of political uncertainty: following a clear defeat in the 2024 Lower House elections, the ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Kōmeitō has now also lost its majority in the Upper House. Rising living costs, an escalating trade conflict with the United States, and an increasingly polarized debate over immigration shaped the election campaign.

The Experiences and Extent of Adopting AI among SMEs in Southeast Asia

This publication gives an overview of AI readiness and adoption in Southeast Asia, with an emphasis on the potential benefits and obstacles for SMEs, followed by a qualitative study that gathers insights on AI adoption among Philippine manufacturing SMEs. It aims to understand general perceptions of AI, identify key factors influencing its adoption and impact, and explore how AI has affected their operations.

The New Geopolitics and South Asia’s Trade Architecture – What Next?

This paper critically analyses South Asia’s trade architecture in the sluggish world economy in the 2020s and makes recommendations for closer regional economic integration.

IPEF Regulations and their Impact on the Economic Security of the Indo-Pacific Region

KAS SOPAS – ISAS NUS Joint Publication

The publication provides insights into the evolving rules that govern the IPEF and examines their potential to shape the region’s economic landscape.

Asia’s Future Workforce

Shaping Responsive Education and Employment Policies for Youth and Beyond

Building on accumulated insights over the past few years, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung’s Regional Economic Programme Asia (SOPAS) and the Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation (TAEF) present a comprehensive analysis of the future of work across selected countries in East, South and Southeast Asia.