Japan's Push to Dissolve the Unification Church Sparks Controversy

The Japanese government has requested the dissolution of the Unification Church in Japan following the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The government's investigation found that the church's practices, including excessive fundraising activities, violated the Religious Corporations Act. This is the third time the Japanese government has sought a dissolution order for a religious group. The Unification Church denies any wrongdoing and pledges reform. If disbanded, the church would lose its religious corporation status and tax benefits. Experts warn that a complete disbandment could take years and push the group's activities underground.