Japanese lawmaker urges Tokyo to back ICC President Akane amid US sanctions
LDP lawmaker Makishima Karen called on Japan to defend ICC President Akane Tomoko after the United States imposed sanctions, arguing that the rule of law must not be sacrificed for security.
In a recent interview, LDP lawmaker Makishima Karen emphasized Japan’s historic support for the International Criminal Court and urged the government to stand firmly behind its Japanese president, Akane Tomoko, after the United States announced sanctions on August 18. She described the move as an intolerable attack on the court’s independence and warned that such actions undermine the rule of law worldwide. Makishima recounted meetings with Akane and cited public sentiment that Japan should defend the ICC regardless of nationality.
She criticized Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae’s early “unfortunate” remark, noting the later statement that U.S. measures conflict with Japan’s position. The lawmaker linked the issue to Japan’s broader diplomatic strategy of promoting Japanese leaders in global institutions, arguing that abandoning them could deter future appointments. She also mentioned coordination with the Dutch embassy to ensure Akane’s safety in The Hague and pointed out practical travel difficulties caused by the sanctions.
