Japan Enacts New Law to Address Unification Church Fundraising Practices

Japan’s parliament passed a new law aimed at curbing fraudulent fundraising by religious and other groups, with the Unification Church as a primary target. The legislation responds to public outrage over the group’s fundraising practices and its longstanding political connections, particularly with Japan’s governing Liberal Democratic Party. The law enables donors and their families to reclaim funds and prohibits coercive or threatening fundraising tactics, including linking donations to spiritual salvation.

The Unification Church’s ties to the LDP came under scrutiny following the July assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The suspect, who shot Abe during a campaign event, cited the former leader’s association with the group as a motive. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, whose approval ratings have declined amid the scandal, has prioritized the law as part of his broader agenda, which also includes strengthening Japan’s national security and defense policies.

Kishida acknowledged the suffering of former Unification Church members, describing their experiences as “ghastly.” He emphasized the law as a bipartisan effort to support victims and their families. The legislation is part of a larger push to reshape Japan’s security posture, with plans to significantly increase military spending over the next five years. Kishida has outlined a defense budget of 43 trillion yen ($316 billion) by 2028, requiring an additional 4 trillion yen ($30 billion) annually, partly through tax increases.

The new security strategy, set to be released later this month, includes provisions for preemptive strike capabilities and the deployment of long-range missiles, marking a departure from Japan’s post-World War II self-defense-only policy. Kishida has stated that the government will gradually implement tax increases starting in 2024, without raising income taxes. He has also ruled out issuing government bonds to fund the defense buildup.

The law’s passage reflects growing concerns over the Unification Church’s influence and fundraising methods, which have drawn criticism for exploiting vulnerable individuals. The legislation aims to restore public trust and ensure accountability, aligning with the theme of justice and accountability found in Micah 6:8.

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