Critics claim the latest element in PM Takaichi’s conservative drive threatens free speech and invites political abuse.
Published On 17 Jul 2026
Japan’s parliament has enacted a controversial law introducing criminal penalties for desecrating the national flag.
The passage of the legislation on Friday is part of an ongoing drive by staunchly conservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to promote traditional patriotism and correct what her supporters call a “wrong” legal double standard.
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Under existing laws, Japan penalises the desecration of foreign flags to prevent diplomatic disputes, but previously lacked equivalent
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