Japan’s debate over constitutional reform has intensified after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called for “advanced discussions” on revising the country’s postwar pacifist constitution during a visit to Vietnam.
The proposed changes centre on Article 9, which limits Japan’s use of military force and remains a key issue in discussions surrounding regional security, defence policy, and relations with China and North Korea.
Key developments:
- Around 50,000 demonstrators gathered in Tokyo on Constitutional Memorial Day opposing constitutional revision.
- Support for reform remains divided, with recent polls showing backing ranging between 47% and 57%.
- Any constitutional amendment would require a two-thirds majority in parliament and approval through a national referendum.
- Takaichi has made constitutional reform a major policy priority since taking office in 2025.
Demonstrations were also reported across multiple Japanese cities, reflecting continuing public divisions over Japan’s future security posture and postwar pacifism.
ℹ️ The Guardian, FRANCE24
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