Erik Isaksson

Erik Isaksson is a Researcher in Japanese Studies (Politics and Economy of Japan) at Freie Universität Berlin, affiliated with the Graduate School of East Asian Studies. He holds an MA in Asian Languages and Cultures from Stockholm University and is pursuing a PhD on Japanese foreign policy narratives (2006-2020) under Prof. Verena Blechinger-Talcott. His work bridges international relations theory, discourse analysis, and East Asian studies.

Education highlights include:

• PhD Candidate (2020–): Freie Universität Berlin
• MA Asian Languages and Cultures (2014–2016): Stockholm University
• Japanese Language Programs (2011–2013): Nihon University, Hokkaido University
• BA Japanese Studies (2010–2014): Stockholm University

Research focuses on Japanese foreign policy narratives, East Asian international relations, and the interplay between domestic and international politics. Key themes include 'universal values' discourses, security strategy formulation, and identity-based diplomacy.

Publications analyze Japan's security policies, Sweden-Japan relations, and Chinese ethnic minority issues. Recent work includes commentary on Japan's 2022 National Security Strategy and the role of narratives in foreign policy autonomy.

Professional roles include:

• Research Assistant, FU Berlin (2022–)
• Associate Fellow, Swedish Institute of International Affairs (2020–)
• Research Coordinator, ISDP (2017–2020)

Awards include DAAD and MEXT scholarships. Current projects examine Swedish engagement on the Korean Peninsula and Japan's China policy narratives.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with European Institute of Japanese Studies (Stockholm) and contributes to EU-Japan strategic partnership research initiatives.