Shinzo Abe’s accelerated efforts to modify Japan’s security policy through decisions to set up a government-led Security Council, draft the first security strategy and revise the defence guidelines, demonstrate the new concept of “proactive pacifism.” The government is considering lifting self-imposed bans on collective self-defence and arms exports, and revising the constitution. The aforementioned plans, together with Abe’s assertive stance, spark unease in East Asia. V4 countries should use the 2014 V4+Japan Exchange Year for strengthening security dialogue with Japan.