The Constitutional Abolition of War in Japan. Monument of a Culture of Peace?

Abstract

Quite unnoticed by the 'rest of the world', Japan has in the past few decades developed a much criticized and often misunderstood 'culture of peace', fostering international conciliation and cooperation. However, following the end of the Cold War and especially the Gulf War, pressure is mounting for Japan to amend its Constitution, give the military institution a f~ basis by establishing a defense ministry, and take up so-called peacekeepmg. Such measures could, however, be counterproductive to achieving general and complete disarmament, non-military guarantees for maintaining peace and 'human security'. Rather than reinforcing military institutions, non-military components conducive of a 'culture of peace' should be strengthened as the Japanese Constitution suggests. Instead of persuading Japan to change its constitution, the international community should consider following up along the lines of the UN Charter, in accordance with their respective constitutional processes.