The Return of Okinawa and the Challenges of the Yara Reform Administration

The Return of Okinawa and the Challenges of the Yara Reform Administration

After the reversion of Okinawa in 1972, Asanao Yara became Okinawa's first publicly elected governor and worked to break away from a base-dependent economy and improve welfare and education. His policies focused on the consolidation and reduction of U.S. military bases, the promotion of tourism and agriculture, and the preservation of cultural identity. However, there were limitations in negotiating the return of bases and correcting the economic disparity with the mainland. Nevertheless, Yara appealed for greater autonomy and aimed to build Okinawa's future on the initiative of its residents. His efforts during this period are regarded as symbolic of the formation of the foundation of Okinawan politics and the preservation of autonomy and culture.