1.
coordination of interests; balancing of competing interests; interest mediation
The process of mediating between parties with different or conflicting interests to reach a workable compromise. A core concept in Japanese politics, business negotiations, and organizational management.
Before deciding on policy, coordination of interests among the ministries is necessary.
A compound of 利害 (interests, gains and losses) and 調整 (adjustment, coordination). This concept is central to Japanese consensus-building (根回し) culture, where decisions are often preceded by extensive behind-the-scenes negotiation to align all parties before a formal announcement.
Common collocations
- 利害調整を行う: to carry out interest coordination
- 利害調整が難航する: interest coordination hits difficulties
- 利害調整の役割: the role of mediating interests
- 利害調整に時間がかかる: interest coordination takes time
Usage
Common in political reporting, especially regarding legislation that affects multiple stakeholders. Also appears in business contexts when departments or companies have conflicting objectives.
Similar words
Related Words
Compare:
根回し (prior consultation, groundwork)
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利害関係 (conflict of interest)
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調停 (mediation, arbitration)