This book locates the development of Dowa policy projects within their historical and political context, offering examples of affirmative action and human rights protection in a non-Western society. Charting Dowa policy from its origination in the pre-war period to revival after 1945 and the turn of the 21st century, chapters in this study provide a social and historical review supplemented by detailed analyses of policy process and implementation at both national and local levels. Whilst previous publications have focused on the 'Buraku Problem', none have done so within the context of postwar Japan or the direct impact of Dowa policy - practices of which have raised concerns over prejudice, economic inequalities, and corruption. Topics are covered from left-wing Buraku Liberation League demands in the late 1950s, the Special Measures Law for Dowa Policy Projects (SML), the evolution of human rights based Dowa policy into the 1970s, and recent central governments funding large-scale infrastructure projects. Evaluating relative successes and failures to improve local infrastructure and opportunities for marginal communities, this book invites comparative analysis both with broader policies across Asia and Western policies mitigating descent-based and racial discrimination. Dowa Policy and Japanese Politics will prove a valuable resource for students and scholars of international relations, human rights, politics, and Japanese studies.