Japan’s Legislation for Peace and Security

“The Development of Seamless Security Legislation to Ensure Japan’s Survival and Protect its People” was adopted by Cabinet Decision in July 2014. Based on the Cabinet Decision, further deliberation was made within the government and between the ruling parties, and on May 14, 2015, the GoJ made a Cabinet Decision on “Legislation for Peace and Security”. The GoJ submitted the bill to the Diet on May 15, and after intensive discussions of over 200 hours, the legislation was approved by the Diet on September 19, 2015.

Japan’s Legislation for Peace and Security (PDF)

Outline of the Japan’s Legislation for Peace and Security

The legislation will enable

(1) seamless responses to any situations to secure the lives and peaceful livelihood of the Japanese people, and

(2) Japan to contribute to the peace and stability of the international community

For example,

(1) Japan can play additional roles in UN PKOs, and participate in other international peace cooperation activities.

(2) The SDF can provide necessary support activities in a situation that has an important influence to Japan’s peace and security or threatens international peace and security.

(3) “Use of Force” is permitted under the “Three New Conditions(Note)”.

(Note) Three New Conditions for “Use of Force” as Measures for Self-Defense

(1) When an armed attack against Japan occurs or when an armed attack against a foreign country that is in a close relationship with Japan occurs and as a result threatens Japan’s survival and poses a clear danger to fundamentally overturn people’s right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness,

(2) When there is no other appropriate means available to repel the attack and ensure Japan’s survival and protects its people,

(3) Use of force limited to the minimum extent necessary

Response to an infringement that does not amount to an armed attack

In order to enable seamless responses to any unlawful acts in a situation where an infringement that does not amount to an armed attack occurs, Cabinet Decisions to accelerate procedures for maritime security operations, public security operations and others were made on May 14, 2015.