From February 17-20, YCAPS, in partnership with the East-West Center, hosted the workshop of its Maritime GENIE (Governance Expanded Network for Innovation and Education) program's second cohort in Yokosuka and Tokyo, Japan. Starting in September 2024, 11 participants (called GENIEs) engaged in a series of online professional development meetings before the in-person workshop in Japan. These meetings involved subject matter experts on various maritime security topics.
The GENIE workshop began with the National Defense Academy tour led by CAPT (ret.) Teruaki Aizawa, Associate Professor in the Department of Leadership and Military History. Participants learned about the Academy and its joint education approach. They also heard from Dr. Yurika Ishii, who shared her perspectives on maritime law as it related to contemporary issues. In the afternoon, participants visited the JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force) base, had a ship tour at JS Yuugiri, and received briefings from the Self-Defense Fleet and Fleet Escort Force at the Maritime Operation Center. Those sessions included introductory information about Japan’s next-generation multi-mission stealth frigates (FFM).
On the second day, participants had a tour and lecture on the Russo-Japanese War at Museum Ship Mikasa, led by CAPT (ret.) “Greg” Kouta. Additionally, Mr. John Niemeyer, who worked as a USN active duty member and later as a civilian for 30 years in Yokosuka, gave an informative lecture on the USN and JMSDF history and relationship, particularly as it involves local community relations. In the afternoon, participants enjoyed a Yokosuka Military Harbor boat cruise, where Dr. John Bradford provided insights on the U.S. Navy and Maritime Self-Defense Force bases. In the evening, participants joined the YCAPS Community Conversations in-person seminar, where Dr. James Brown, a Professor of Political Science at Temple University, Japan Campus, lectured on Japan’s policies toward Russia and Ukraine in 2025.
On the final day, participants toured the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) Museum Yokohama, which displays the raised hulk of the DPRK spy boat sunk by the JCG. In the afternoon, participants traveled to the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) in Tokyo. They attended the Maritime Safety and Security Program (MSSP) class, lectured by Captain Kentaro Furuya (JCG), Adjunct Professor in International Law of the Sea and Maritime Law Enforcement, and gained insights into the JCG’s maritime law enforcement activities in the vicinity of Japan. At the end of the workshop, participants pitched their ideas for maritime governance innovations, interacting with MSSP students and CAPT Furuya. This provided useful feedback as the GENIE participants continue to shape their ideas.
Overall, the in-person workshop was a great success and led to many connections being forged between the participants that will benefit the regional maritime security community immensely. The chance to share ideas and perspectives between people from diverse backgrounds made the week an invaluable learning resource for all.
The East-West Center generously funded the program through a RICE (Research Innovation & Collaboration Exchange) Fellowship award. Media inquiries can be directed to Isak Nordenberg (isak.nordenberg@ycaps.org)