Mass protests in Japan oppose constitutional change

Tens of thousands of citizens in Japan have protested against changes to the pacifist constitution, while Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has called for advanced discussions on revising it.

During an official visit to Vietnam, Takaichi stated that the constitution should “reflect the demands of the times,” emphasizing the need for changes in response to security challenges from North Korea and China, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

At the center of the debate is Article 9 of the post-war constitution, which prohibits the use of military force to resolve international disputes. Amendments require a two-thirds majority in parliament and approval in a referendum, while polls show deep divisions in public opinion.

On Sunday, around 50,000 protesters gathered in Tokyo to defend the constitution, calling it a guarantee of peace and stability since it came into force on May 3, 1947. Similar protests were held in other cities across the country.

According to The Guardian, critics accuse the government of aiming to turn the Self-Defense Forces into a regular army and oppose increased military spending, instead calling for a focus on healthcare, education, and employment, reports KosovaPress.

Meanwhile, the United States has also praised the role of Japan’s constitution in preserving popular sovereignty, fundamental rights, and pacifism, emphasizing that it has remained unchanged since its adoption after World War II.

Photo: Chat GPT