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In this paper I want to approach the theme of “globalization and Japan” from the standpoint of constitutional studies. Constitutions and constitutionalism are important means of reining in political power, and in the modern sovereign state system, constitutions and constitutionalism have been conceived on the level of single states. However, as many scholars have observed, one can see the global spread of power in, for example, the worldwide deployment of the US military using overseas bases throughout the world, and the worldwide activities of transnational corporations based in the US, Europe, and Japan. In sum, this is the global spread of military and social power. It is urgent that we rein in this global power. Although controlling power through single-state-level constitutions and constitutionalism is perhaps still the most important priority, we must also consider the possibilities of global constitutionalism or regional constitutionalism now when power is spreading globally. This paper will explore global constitutionalism, which is now the subject of vigorous discussion for those concerned with global governance. Finally, the paper will link global constitutionalism with the pacifism in Japan's constitution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the establishment of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines organizations for the mobilization of nongovernmental organizations and governments. History of arms control and movement to ban antipersonnel landmines; Characterization of landmines as indiscriminate; Success of the movement to ban antipersonnel landmines.

A Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices is a natural next step on the multinational nuclear arms control agenda. Despite interest among key states and excessive stockpiles of fissile material, a formalized cut-off has yet to materialize. A new pragmatic approach for negotiating an FMCT patterned after the recent Mine Ban Treaty is presented as a potential model. Sweden, together with the other countries of the New Agenda Coalition, is identified as a possible candidate to take the lead and host an alternative FMCT negotiation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a comparative case study of the protest against the Multilateral Agreement on Investment (MAI) and the campaign to ban landmines in an effort to examine the implications of a global civil society and the World Wide Web for nongovernmental organization (NGO) activity in the contemporary era. Examination of the campaigns against MAI and landmines; Role of NGO in globalization.