Structure and Functions of the Central Government

Japan’s central government, traditionally dominated by the bureaucracy in policy-making, has seen a shift toward a more politically led decision-making process following the change of government in 2009 and 2012. This transformation is supported by key organizational changes, including a departure from the previous ministry-dominant system to one that bolsters the auxiliary functions of the Cabinet. The 2001 reorganization of ministries and agencies played a pivotal role in firmly establishing this new direction. In this chapter, we will explore these shifts within the Cabinet, the Cabinet Secretariat, the ministries, and independent bodies.