On Feb 8, Japan will hold a snap election that could reshape the country’s political landscape. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is seeking to strengthen her coalition’s hold on power, while a newly reorganized opposition aims to make gains. 

So, what’s really at stake in this election? And what could the results mean for the future of Japan’s domestic politics, its economy, and its role on the global stage?

On The Big Story, Hongbin Jeong speaks with Stephen Nagy, Professor of Politics & International Studies at the International Christian University, Senior fellow and China project lead at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute and Visiting Fellow at the Japan Institute for International Affairs.

They break down the key dynamics of the election, what to watch on election day, and what the outcome could mean for Japan’s future.

The title of Stephen’s forthcoming book is “Japan as a Middle Power State: Navigating Ideological and Systemic Divides.”