Japan Criminalizes Desecrating Its National Flag, Violators Face Stiff Prison Sentences
A nation’s flag is more than a simple logo. It is a symbol.
In a single image, a people provide for the world their history and values. What they hold dearly is boldly displayed and should be protected.
Japan’s government understands this, and they have passed a law against flag desecration carrying a heavy fine and possible prison sentence.
France24 reported Friday that anyone who removes, damages, or defaces the flag in a manner sparking revulsion to others can receive two years in prison or a 200,000 yen fine, equivalent to $1,200.
Japan reportedly already has laws on the books against desecrating foreign flags. Should they not provide protections for their own?
The flag, a red disc and white background, is said to have been used as early as 1870 for commercial ships, per ABC News.
Other flags, like the kyokujitsuki — a red disk with rays extending from it — are controversial given its use by the Japanese Empire during invasions of the Korean peninsula and China in the years prior to World War II and during the war itself.
According to the Associated Press, critics worry the law will become a draconian measure. Motohiro Hashimoto, a Chuo University constitutional law professor, commented that “punishing national flag vandals means a prohibition of criticism against the government.”
The government in question is that of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, known for being a more conservative presence in that office.