Japan enacts law criminalising disrespect of the national flag amid free-speech worries

Japan's parliament approved a law that criminalises the public damage, removal or defilement of the national flag, known as the Hinomaru, effective Thursday. The bill, a long-standing goal of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, imposes up to two years in prison or a fine of 200,000 yen when the act elicits strong feelings of discomfort or disgust. Sponsored by the Liberal Democratic Party, the Japan Innovation Party and supported by several opposition legislators, the measure aims to protect what officials describe as public respect for the flag.

The National Police Agency has instructed local forces to evaluate each case thoroughly before proceeding with arrests, and the law exempts portrayals in films, anime, manga, video games and AI-generated content, as well as personal damage to one’s own flag. A joint statement from roughly 200 constitutional scholars on August 4 called for the law’s repeal, citing concerns over suppression of critical speech, though one outlet's poll in late July indicated 55.8% of respondents view the law favorably. The statute includes a provision for review after about three years, with possible adjustments thereafter.