Unification Church-related Japan NGO to sue anti-cult lawyers’ group over defamation claim

A nongovernmental organization (NGO) linked to the former Unification Church has announced plans to sue an anti-cult lawyers’ group in Tokyo District Court. The Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) Japan, which maintains ties to the Unification Church, now officially known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, is seeking 33 million yen ($230,000) in damages. The lawsuit follows a statement by the National Network of Lawyers Against Spiritual Sales, which called on local governments to deny the WFWP permission to use venues for a speech contest for foreign students.

The lawyers’ group described the WFWP as “a group serving to gather people and collect money for the former Unification Church while masquerading as a volunteer organization.” In response, the WFWP asserted that while the founder is the same, its activities and management are conducted as an independent, United Nations-registered NGO. The organization claims the lawyers’ statement constitutes defamation.

At a press conference, the WFWP’s chairperson, Moriko Hori, stated that five venues in four prefectures had rejected the group’s request to hold the event. She expressed frustration, noting her over 30 years of international volunteer work. The NGO plans to file the lawsuit the following day.

The dispute highlights tensions between the WFWP and anti-cult advocacy groups, with the former insisting on its independence and the latter accusing it of being a front for the Unification Church. The case underscores the complex relationship between religious organizations and legal challenges they face, particularly in matters of public perception and financial transparency.

The WFWP’s legal action reflects broader concerns about the portrayal of religious groups and the impact of such portrayals on their operations and public engagement. The outcome of the case could influence how similar organizations navigate legal and reputational challenges in the future.

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