This past week the Japanese parliament passed an amendment to their constitution that allowed for a greater role in international intervention. The measure was passed by a vote of 148 to 90 in favor. After World War II Japan set up a new constitution. One article of the new constitution, Article 9, says that the Japanese nation denounces war and is dedicated to peace. For the past 70 the Japanese military has had limited role and has been mainly used in self-defense. Many of Japan's neighbors, chiefly China, have reacted negatively to this act. China has claimed that acts like these were responsible for the aggression shown by the Japanese before and during World War II. China also pledged to defend itself from any possible aggression. Japan's allies, including the United States, have applauded as a show of support for its allies. Majority of the Japanese people have not shown much support for the new shift in the role of its military. After the announcement of the passage of the measure, many demonstrations were sparked throughout Japan.
This new shift in Japanese military involvement is very intriguing. With tension continuing to rise in the region, this measure is sure to have its ramifications. It will be interesting to see how the other countries in Asia react, especially North Korea and China. Give the recent aggressive comments made by both nations, this new development could have a negative affect on deescalating tensions.
Full Article: http://www.cnn.com/2015/09/19/asia/japan-military-constitution/index.html
Tyler Allen
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