GRASSROOTS DIPLOMACY: THE EFFECT AND EFFECTIVENESS OF THE JET PROGRAMME ON THE SINGAPORE – JAPAN RELATIONSHIP

Abstract

This study examines the JET Programme and its impact on bilateral relations between Singapore and Japan. Current scholarship surrounding the JET Programme has largely focused on its educational component, while foreign policy research remains limited in measuring its success. However, direct impacts on participating countries remain vague. Through semi-structured interviews with nine JET alumni and participants, I analyse whether the JET Programme has led to visible effects for bilateral relations between Singapore and Japan through examining the lived experiences of participants during and after their time in the programme. Applying existing frameworks of internationalisation and soft power, I argue that the programme has benefitted Singapore as its reputation in Japan’s regional communities became increasingly positive, while Japanese local organisations and schools receive hard-working personnel who were highly praised in turn. Participants also gained nuanced experiences that shaped and deepened their appreciation for Japan, which they shared on their own accord after their return. In Singapore, there is also a growing segment of mid-career individuals in the programme, which affects how objectives can be achieved. Likewise, structural issues in the programme coupled with limited initiatives for returnees do remain. In addition, this study also questions the broader significance of how grassroots programmes like JET affect public diplomacy and other nations’ perception, as well as the relevance of the soft power approach in cultural exchanges.