Engaging Citizens on Constitutional Rights: A Learning Session with Kyushu University Professor
On September 8, 2023, the Pal System Federation held an online event that gathered 90 participants to delve into the significance of constitutional rights, featuring Shigeru Minamino, a professor at Kyushu University. The event underscored the crucial need for citizens to understand their rights as they hold the power to vote on amendments to the constitution. Professor Minamino shared insights on how Japan's constitution operates to check government power and protect individual rights.
Professor Minamino has been a prominent advocate for constitutional awareness since the discussions regarding constitutional amendments gained traction around a decade ago. His unique approach includes engaging diverse groups, including even idol group members, to raise awareness about the meaning of the constitution. He publishes informative books and conducts lectures throughout the nation, emphasizing that “each citizen has the right to decide” and urging for a more informed populace.
Reflecting on the historical context, he explained that modern constitutionalism is designed to prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a dictator by separating legislative (the Diet), executive (the Cabinet), and judicial (the courts) powers. The principle of equality in human rights and freedoms underlies this framework, as first articulated in the 1789 French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.
Japan enacted the first constitution in East Asia, known as the Meiji Constitution, in 1889. However, during World War II, even elected representatives struggled to prevent human rights violations, leading to significant war casualties. The aftermath of the war saw the establishment of a modern constitutional framework limiting the ease of amendments and implementing judicial review to ensure laws align with constitutional standards. While the United States has seen over 1,000 constitutional rulings and South Korea over 900 since 1987, Japan has only had 13 rulings since 1947, highlighting a significant contrast in constitutional interpretation.
Professor Minamino cited the 1973 precedent regarding the unconstitutionality of laws harshly penalizing acts of parricide. Despite the ruling, resistance from legislators, who clung to traditional values, delayed necessary legal reforms until 1995. This history illustrates the challenges faced in shifting societal values within legal frameworks.
Discussions on contemporary issues, such as the proposed amendments to Article 9 and emergency provisions affecting parliamentary terms, call for careful consideration to protect minority rights. The need for balancing majority and minority opinions is paramount in legislative matters. He stresses the vital importance of each individual making informed decisions regarding discussions surrounding civil rights, such as the optional separate surnames for couples and same-sex marriage.
Additionally, Professor Minamino expressed concern about the societal reliance on social media for information. He noted the dangers of echo chambers formed by algorithms promoting similar viewpoints, which can lead to the acceptance of conspiracy theories without factual verification. He encourages comprehensive learning through various media, including newspapers and books, to foster a well-rounded understanding of citizenship.
To conclude, Professor Minamino highlighted his commitment to education, including simplified constitutional texts for elementary children, suggesting that learning should be a shared endeavor among individuals and families. Pal System commits to promoting a society that acknowledges and respects diverse values, advocating for a future where every voice counts.
The Pal System Cooperative Federation, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is led by Chairman Yoshiyuki Shibusawa. The cooperative system includes numerous member cooperatives across various regions, amassing a substantial business scale. As we approach 2025, designated as the International Year of Cooperatives, the initiative seeks to unite diverse communities and strengthen mutual understanding across societal facades.
Professor Minamino has been a prominent advocate for constitutional awareness since the discussions regarding constitutional amendments gained traction around a decade ago. His unique approach includes engaging diverse groups, including even idol group members, to raise awareness about the meaning of the constitution. He publishes informative books and conducts lectures throughout the nation, emphasizing that “each citizen has the right to decide” and urging for a more informed populace.
Reflecting on the historical context, he explained that modern constitutionalism is designed to prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a dictator by separating legislative (the Diet), executive (the Cabinet), and judicial (the courts) powers. The principle of equality in human rights and freedoms underlies this framework, as first articulated in the 1789 French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.
Japan enacted the first constitution in East Asia, known as the Meiji Constitution, in 1889. However, during World War II, even elected representatives struggled to prevent human rights violations, leading to significant war casualties. The aftermath of the war saw the establishment of a modern constitutional framework limiting the ease of amendments and implementing judicial review to ensure laws align with constitutional standards. While the United States has seen over 1,000 constitutional rulings and South Korea over 900 since 1987, Japan has only had 13 rulings since 1947, highlighting a significant contrast in constitutional interpretation.
Professor Minamino cited the 1973 precedent regarding the unconstitutionality of laws harshly penalizing acts of parricide. Despite the ruling, resistance from legislators, who clung to traditional values, delayed necessary legal reforms until 1995. This history illustrates the challenges faced in shifting societal values within legal frameworks.
Discussions on contemporary issues, such as the proposed amendments to Article 9 and emergency provisions affecting parliamentary terms, call for careful consideration to protect minority rights. The need for balancing majority and minority opinions is paramount in legislative matters. He stresses the vital importance of each individual making informed decisions regarding discussions surrounding civil rights, such as the optional separate surnames for couples and same-sex marriage.
Additionally, Professor Minamino expressed concern about the societal reliance on social media for information. He noted the dangers of echo chambers formed by algorithms promoting similar viewpoints, which can lead to the acceptance of conspiracy theories without factual verification. He encourages comprehensive learning through various media, including newspapers and books, to foster a well-rounded understanding of citizenship.
To conclude, Professor Minamino highlighted his commitment to education, including simplified constitutional texts for elementary children, suggesting that learning should be a shared endeavor among individuals and families. Pal System commits to promoting a society that acknowledges and respects diverse values, advocating for a future where every voice counts.
The Pal System Cooperative Federation, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is led by Chairman Yoshiyuki Shibusawa. The cooperative system includes numerous member cooperatives across various regions, amassing a substantial business scale. As we approach 2025, designated as the International Year of Cooperatives, the initiative seeks to unite diverse communities and strengthen mutual understanding across societal facades.
Topics People & Culture）
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