"Japan has the ability to play a unique role in nuclear energy development.  By maintaining its long-standing commitment to nuclear nonproliferation while harnessing its nuclear technology capabilities, the country can serve as a role model for safe and peaceful nuclear energy. With its close ties to the U.S. nuclear sector, and as nuclear power continues to rapidly grow in Asia even after the March 2011 Fukushima accident, Japan can play a critical role in maintaining regional security and stability."

In this essay, former Japan Scholar Hideshi Futori explores Japan's place in the current debate on nuclear energy in the wake of the Fukushima accident three years ago.