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Pacifist Constitution

All articles tagged with #pacifist constitution

Young Japanese Rally to Keep Japan’s Peaceful Constitution as Reform Looms
world1 month ago

Young Japanese Rally to Keep Japan’s Peaceful Constitution as Reform Looms

Thousands of young protesters, including 22-year-old Gohta Hashimoto, are mobilizing to defend Article 9 of Japan's postwar pacifist constitution as the LDP pushes constitutional reform and a broader Self-Defense Forces role, with demonstrations across Tokyo and other cities signaling cross-generational concern about Japan being drawn into overseas wars; any amendment would still require a two-thirds parliamentary majority and a nationwide referendum amid divided public opinion.

Japan opens door to overseas arms sales, signaling a pivot from postwar pacifism
defense1 month ago

Japan opens door to overseas arms sales, signaling a pivot from postwar pacifism

Japan’s cabinet approved lifting the ban on exporting lethal weapons, potentially allowing the sale of fighter jets, missiles, and warships to countries that commit to UN Charter use. Initial eligibility reportedly covers about 17 nations, with room to expand through bilateral deals. The move marks a dramatic shift from Japan’s post–World War II pacifist stance and aligns with recent defense deals, such as a $7 billion ships contract with Australia, while still restricting sales to conflicts and requiring national-security considerations.