Japan's Article 9: A Controversial Debate on Pacifism and National Defense

💡The beheadings by the Islamic State have reignited the debate on amending Article 9 of Japan's Constitution.

🔒Japan's ruling party, the LDP, believes that the country should have the right to defend itself and change Article 9.

🚫Japan's left opposes any changes to Article 9, fearing the militarization of the country.

🗳️Public opinion in Japan is divided on the issue, with polls showing a majority against changing Article 9.

🔔The debate on Article 9 has led to a heightened sense of nationalism and right-wing activism in Japan.

What is Article 9 of Japan's Constitution?

—Article 9 of Japan's Constitution prohibits the country from going to war or maintaining military forces for war potential.

Why does Japan's ruling party want to change Article 9?

—Japan's ruling party, the LDP, believes that the country should have the right to defend itself and respond to security threats.

Why does Japan's left oppose changing Article 9?

—Japan's left fears that changing Article 9 would lead to the militarization of the country and a departure from its pacifist principles.

What is the public opinion on changing Article 9?

—Public opinion in Japan is divided on the issue, with polls showing a majority against changing Article 9.

How has the debate on Article 9 impacted Japan?

—The debate on Article 9 has led to a heightened sense of nationalism and right-wing activism in Japan.

00:08The brutal beheadings of two Japanese citizens by the Islamic State have reignited the debate on amending Article 9 of Japan's Constitution.

00:49Japan's ruling party, the LDP, believes that the country should have the right to defend itself and change Article 9.

01:20Japan's left opposes any changes to Article 9, fearing the militarization of the country.

05:12On July 1, 2014, Prime Minister Abe's cabinet approved a document that revises the interpretation of Article 9.

06:20A majority of Japanese citizens are against changing Article 9, according to polls.

07:36Daikaku Chodoin, a right-wing figure, hosts a web TV show discussing the beheadings and Article 9.

09:55Right-wing groups and the Yakuza are closely connected and share core values.

13:01The debate on changing Article 9 is getting more and more likely to result in Japanese soldiers on foreign soil.