This book explores the historical parallels between Japan and Kosovo, revealing how U.S. influence shaped the birth of their constitutions. Through a comparative and analytical lens, it uncovers the intricate interplay of occupation, diplomacy, and state-building that defined both postwar Japan and post-conflict Kosovo. Drawing on extensive archival research and original documentation, the book traces how American policymakers navigated the challenges of reconstruction, from Japan's demilitarization after World War II to Kosovo's struggle for sovereignty following the collapse of Yugoslavia. It examines the Lend-Lease Act, wartime diplomacy, and shifting U.S. geopolitical strategies to expose how ideals of democracy were often entwined with power politics and strategic interests. By connecting two seemingly distant histories, this book redefines how we understand American influence in constitution-making, and raises a timeless question: how far can foreign powers go in shaping another state's identity?

Analyzes the US' involvement in the constitution drafting process of Japan and Kosovo Discusses the effects of the absence of Japan and Kosovo from the constitutional drafting process Engages with the unique process of drafting constitutions with demilitarization as a long term goal

Autorentext

Dr. Sopaj is Executive Assistant to the Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo, Tokyo, Non-Resident Fellow at Indo-Pacific Studies Center (IPSC), Research Fellow at the Research Institute for Indo-Pacific Affairs (RIIPA) and Board Member of the Global Peacebuilding Association Japan (GPAJ). She is External Liaison Officer at the Kyoto Peacebuilding Centre (KPC), and Director of Administration at the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS), Tokyo.

Klappentext

This book draws from the historical approach of Japan and Kosovo to present a unique perspective in the complex role of the US in drafting their constitutions. By examining these two different case studies, it uncovers underlying patterns and illuminate the intricate dynamics involved in such significant undertakings. The first part starts with a comparative analysis of constitution-making in Japan and Kosovo, showing how different historical events and US involvement shaped divergent paths. From the post-World War I era to the brink of World War II, subsequent chapters examine events marked by geopolitical tensions, diplomatic strategies, and military confrontations between US and Japan. The second part of the book delves into the complex role of the US role in Yugoslavia and later in Kosovo, covering historical backgrounds with diplomatic efforts. It delves into the implications of the Lend-Lease Act on Yugoslavias strategic defense during World War II, revealing the complexities of alliances that hindered Kosovos quest for independence.

Dr. Sopaj is Executive Assistant to the Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo, Tokyo, Non-Resident Fellow at Indo-Pacific Studies Center (IPSC), Research Fellow at the Research Institute for Indo-Pacific Affairs (RIIPA) and Board Member of the Global Peacebuilding Association Japan (GPAJ). She is External Liaison Officer at the Kyoto Peacebuilding Centre (KPC), and Director of Administration at the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS), Tokyo.

Inhalt

Chapter 1: Constitution Making in Japan and Kosovo.- Chapter 2: U.S.-Japan Relations and the Road to War.- Chapter 3: The Road to Pearl Harbor: The Coming War Between Japan and the U.S.- Chapter 4: Japan's Post-War Constitution and the Challenges of Reform.- Chapter 5: The Detrimental Effects of U.S. Financial Aid to Yugoslavia.- Chapter 6: America's Final Effort to End Hostilities in Kosovo.- Chapter 7: Constitutional Framework for Provisional Self-Government in Kosovo.