By Joe Ray.
Japan’s parliament has approved a new law allowing the country’s troops to fight abroad. The legislation was passed in Japan’s upper house on 19th September by 148 votes in favour to 90 against it.
The legislation enables Japanese troops to undertake combat missions abroad in the defence of allies; the military had been constitutionally restricted to self-defence and aid operations since 1945.
Scuffles broke out as opponents attempted to prevent the vote from taking place, and protestors gathered outside parliament to voice their opposition. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe argues that the law is simply a normalisation of military policy which brings Japan into line with many other nations.
Critics contend that the move undermines Japan’s pacifist constitution and risks dragging the country into foreign conflicts. The lower house approved the legislation’s passage in July.
For more information:
Ministry of Defence: www.mod.go.jp/e/
