#Japan #Tokyo #Japanese Politics #National Consumer Council #Public Inquiry

Introduction

As the Upper House elections approach in Japan, the National Consumer Council, known as Seidanren, has undertaken a significant initiative to gather responses from political parties regarding pressing national issues. Established to protect the lives and livelihoods of citizens, Seidanren comprises more than 700 affiliated organizations, including businesses, industry groups, consumer advocates, and NPOs. This organization aims to engage in meaningful discussions about national challenges and provide recommendations to the government and relevant authorities.

Background of Seidanren

Founded with a mission to defend citizens' lives and rights, Seidanren stands out as Japan's first organization of its kind. Unlike traditional industry associations, Seidanren addresses crucial topics such as disaster response, national fiscal transparency, immigration policies, energy issues, and gender inclusivity from a consumer's perspective. This organization actively encourages research, dialogue, and public dissemination of information to raise awareness of these issues among citizens.

The Inquiry Process

On June 25, 2025, Seidanren initiated a public inquiry directed at ten political parties that meet the eligibility requirements under Japanese law, including the Liberal Democratic Party, Constitutional Democratic Party, Japan Innovation Party, Komeito, Democratic Party for the People, Japanese Communist Party, Reiwa Shinsengumi, Sanseito, Social Democratic Party, and Japan Conservative Party. The deadline for responses was set for July 8. Notably, however, Reiwa Shinsengumi and the Japan Conservative Party did not provide responses by the deadline.

Summary of Key Questions

Seidanren posed various questions to the parties, focusing on critical areas:

1. Enhancing Leadership in Crisis Situations: This question revolved around the initial response capabilities of the crisis management office and areas that require strengthening.
2. Disaster Relief: The inquiry sought concrete measures to ensure that evacuees receive warm, nutritionally balanced meals.
3. Transparency in National Fiscal Policy: Questions regarding the introduction of a multi-year budget system, the establishment of independent fiscal institutions, and mechanisms to increase disposable income amidst rising prices were presented.
4. Coordinating Immigration Policies: Seidanren sought opinions on the integration of various social aspects like community living, education, and work environment pertaining to immigration.
5. Energy Policy Issues: Questions included the disposal of spent nuclear fuel and current priorities in energy challenges.
6. Gender Mainstreaming: Last but not least, inquiries aimed to improve women's political participation and identify barriers they face in this regard.

The responses to these questions, summarized and presented in a clear format, will provide the public with valuable insights into each political party's stance on these significant topics.

Access to Further Information

For those interested in exploring the details further, Seidanren has made the full responses available, categorized by party and question. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of where each political party stands on the issues that directly impact the lives of Japanese citizens.

Conclusion

As the elections draw near, the transparency and insights gathered through Seidanren's public inquiry represent an essential initiative in encouraging accountability and awareness among political leaders. The results could very well influence the direction of policies that affect society, reflecting a collective voice aiming to improve the standard of living and protect the interests of all citizens.

For more detailed information about the questions, responses, or the history of Seidanren, visit their official website, and follow their updates on YouTube and Twitter.