Should Japan revise Article 9 of its Constitution?

 

After World War II, Japan was forbidden to have a military. Article 9 of the post-war Constitution (日本国憲法第9条, Nihonkokukenpō dai 9-jō) outlaws war as a means to settle international disputes involving the State. The Constitution came into effect on May 3, 1947.

 

Article 9 of the Constitution

 

However, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe wanted to amend Japan’s constitution to allow the country to have a full-fledged military. The act would likely provoke her neighbors, China and North and South Korea, and bring tension in the area.

 

Prime Minister Abe Appeals to Japanese on Pacifist Constitution

 

Although Japan does not have an offensive military, it has a strongSelf-Defense Forces (SDF), established in 1954 after the Allied Occupation.  

 

Japan’s Self-defense forces ​

Japan has the ability to defend itself. Article 9 allowedfor a self-defense force of 150,000, which has been expanded to 270,000. While this may be small in comparison to other countries in the area, it serves its purpose for defense, not aggression. If the force was used for anything other than defense, it would be unconstitutional.

 

Japan’s SDF consists of a ground defense force with infantry capabilities that are tasked with national defense and disaster recovery operations (e.g. the March 11 tsunami and earthquake recovery operations.)

 

Their maritime/naval force has destroyer–class vessels, anti-nuclear weapon/anti-submarine/anti-mine units with designated personnel and advanced aircrafts, as well as a maritime counter-terrorist component that is comparable to U.S. Navy SEALs. 

 

The Air self–defense force has aircrafts that are identical to the intercept/fighter aircraft used by the U.S. 

 

Even though these forces are for national protection only, Japan can circumvent the law if need be. The SDF can send its forces abroad to protect Japan’s international interests. For example, Japan took part in self defense/security operations in Somalia and Iraq. 

 

In conclusion, Japan has a fully functioning military that is ultimately beefed up by its alliance with the U.S. Ultimately, Shinzo Abe was not able to muster enough support to amend the Constitution.  He recently resigned because of health reason.  However, he was able to expand the function and activities of the SDF in 2016.  Read the following article: 

 

Abe’s Cabinet approves more muscular SDF peacekeeping role

 

Question:  Should Japan revise Article 9 of its constitution and have a full-fledged military?

 

Poll shows 54% oppose revision of Japan’s pacifist Constitution under Abe’s watch

 

​Japan wrestles with its pacifism 

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​Although this article is not recent but the situation has not changed. We will see if the Japanese ​people would change their mind since they are dealing with an increasingly aggressive North ​Korea.

Bottom of Form

 

Do some researches; then present your opinion in a couple of paragraphs. Back up your YES or NO with reasons. See the tips below on how to do this assignment.

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​Points to consider: