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Shinzo Abe

Shinzo Abe was a Japanese politician who served twice as prime minister of Japan, first from 2006 to 2007 and again from 2012 to 2020.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Shinzo Abe was a Japanese politician who served twice as prime minister of Japan, first from 2006 to 2007 and again from 2012 to 2020. He was Japan’s longest-serving prime minister and was assassinated in Nara in 2022.

Early life and background

Shinzo Abe was born in Tokyo in 1954 and came from a politically prominent family. He entered national politics as a member of Japan’s House of Representatives.

Prime minister of Japan

Abe first became prime minister in 2006 and returned to office in 2012. His second administration was the longest continuous premiership in Japanese history and ended in 2020.

Policy and legacy

Abe is closely associated with Abenomics, an economic strategy aimed at ending deflation and supporting growth. His foreign and security policies were influential and sometimes controversial.

Assassination and death

Abe was fatally shot in Nara on July 8, 2022, while speaking at a campaign event. His death prompted widespread reaction in Japan and abroad.

Key facts

  • Abe served as prime minister in two non-consecutive terms.
  • He became Japan’s longest-serving prime minister during his second term.
  • He promoted an economic policy package known as Abenomics.
  • He was shot and killed while giving a campaign speech in Nara in 2022.
  • He was a leading figure in the Liberal Democratic Party.
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Canadian context

Abe’s leadership affected Canada through Japan–Canada relations, G7 cooperation, and broader Indo-Pacific diplomacy.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Shinzo Abe?
Shinzo Abe was a Japanese politician who served as prime minister of Japan twice and was a leading figure in the Liberal Democratic Party.
When was Shinzo Abe prime minister?
He served from 2006 to 2007 and again from 2012 to 2020.
What was Abenomics?
Abenomics was Abe’s economic policy program, associated with monetary easing, fiscal stimulus, and structural reform.
How did Shinzo Abe die?
He was shot while delivering a campaign speech in Nara on July 8, 2022, and died from his injuries.
Was Shinzo Abe Japan’s longest-serving prime minister?
Yes. During his second term, he became Japan’s longest-serving prime minister.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Shinzo-Abe
    Supports: Birth, death, offices held, and overview biography.
  2. Prime Minister’s Office of Japan — https://japan.kantei.go.jp/96_abe/meibo/daijin/abe_e.html
    Supports: Official biographical details, birth date, political offices, and party role.
  3. CNN — https://www.cnn.com/world/asia/shinzo-abe-fast-facts
    Supports: Basic life facts, Abenomics, education, and death.
  4. BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-53938094
    Supports: Legacy as Japan’s longest-serving prime minister and political significance.
  5. The Straits Times — https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/shinzo-abe-life-and-times
    Supports: Abenomics, foreign policy, and constitutional revision efforts.