How do young people from Central Europe perceive the relationship between our region and Japan? Discover the insights in a report created by Japanese and Asian studies students from four countries as part of the project “When Japan Meets Central Europe,” conducted under the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP).
International educational project
The initiative brought together more than 20 students and scholars from SWPS University (Poland), Palacký University Olomouc (Czech Republic), Károli Gáspár University of the Reformed Church (Hungary), and Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania). These academic institutions joined forces to create an intensive educational experience that combined lectures with hands-on engagement and direct contact with international experts. Their goal was to analyze how young people from Central Europe perceive the current state of relations between our region and Japan.
The project was more than a learning opportunity—it was an exploration of political, cultural, and economic connections, both historical and current. The result is a comprehensive report that offers a student-centered perspective on international relations and mutual interests between Japan and Central Europe.
Japan and Central European countries have a lot in common. Both sides emphasize the importance of democratic governance, the rule of law, and regional security, particularly in response to threats such as the war in Ukraine. Japan’s cooperation with the EU and NATO goals also enhances its strategic compatibility with the region. Additionally, Japan’s investments in infrastructure, education, and cultural programs in Central Europe reflect a strategic vision for long-term development, mutual growth, and understanding.
excerpt form the report "When Japan Meets Central Europe"
A fresh look at Japan
Japanese studies have a long tradition in Central Europe, dating back to the early 20th century. However, the field has traditionally focused on the study of language, culture, and history. This project takes a step further by integrating insights from social sciences and international relations.
For many students, this was their first opportunity to connect with peers and lecturers from other Central European countries. As part of the project, they gained insights into the region's cooperation with Japan and learned how the economies of this part of the EU serve as a bridge between Japan and Western Europe. Japanese studies students, who focus on Japan in their everyday academic work, pointed out that they lacked a deeper understanding of current relations between their region and Japan. That is why many have already expressed interest in taking part in future editions of the project.
Olga Barbasiewicz, Ph.D. / Associate Professor
project coordinator from SWPS University
International students attended online lectures led by experts from Japan, Poland, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Lithuania. They later gathered in Warsaw for an intensive in-person program, where they met with policymakers and diplomats actively involved in Polish–Japanese cooperation. Visits to unique cultural sites, including a behind-the-scenes look at Japanese artifacts at the warehouse of the National Museum in Warsaw and a trip to the Józef Piłsudski Museum in Sulejówek, added more context to their experience.
The students observed that current relations between Central Europe and Japan are still primarily rooted in cultural admiration and historical ties. At the same time, they identified potential for deeper collaboration in fields like green energy, new technologies, and security cooperation.
What the report reveals
The report prepared by students not only reflects on the history of relations between our region and Japan but also puts forward ideas for the future.
Today, Japan is seen as a reliable partner, actively investing in infrastructure, technological innovation, education, and cultural programs across Central Europe. The current state of relations highlights a dynamic and promising cooperation across multiple domains.
excerpt form the report "When Japan Meets Central Europe"
The report emphasizes the value of:
- Strategic collaboration on global challenges in areas such as sustainability and innovation.
- Interdisciplinary education that goes beyond traditional humanities-focused Japanese studies
- Youth engagement as a driver for shaping international partnerships
Read the report
Download the report: „When Japan Meets Central Europe” (PDF)