Global outlook: with Otto von Habsburg in Japan

At our event in Tokyo, we will explore how, following the cataclysm of the Second World War, Otto von Habsburg facilitated the development of international relations between Japan and the transatlantic region, contributing to the strengthening of the island nation’s global prestige and reputation, and the development of economic ties and political cooperation.

From the 1950s onwards, the Archduke was a frequent visitor to Japan, where his excellent networking skills brought him into close contact with members of the imperial family and an increasing number of leading politicians, including several prime ministers and business leaders. As a Member of the European Parliament, he has also emphasised deepening cooperation between the Far East and the Old Continent. Through his close friendship with Friedrich August von Hayek and the leading figures of the Austrian economic school, as well as his involvement in the Mont Pelerin Society, Otto von Habsburg also became deeply engaged in the economic issues of Japanese reconstruction, fostering links between the Japanese business leaders and the Nobel Prize-winning economist who was very popular in the Far East.

The Japanese-related material in our Foundation’s archive, whose highlights will also be presented, not only provides useful source material for understanding the nature, specificities and complexities of the global Cold War and the post-Cold War world order but also serves as a valuable reference for contemporary international political thought and action.

In addition to the opening of the exhibition, we will present our book 99 Years 99 Photos: Photographs from the Life of Otto von Habsburg at the Hungarian Embassy in Tokyo, and we have contacted the Archives of the Imperial Household Agency to conduct research.

Programme of the opening:

Poster of the exhibition: