A recent global survey has highlighted widespread concern over Japan’s latest defense policies, with many fearing that the nation’s military expansion could destabilize the Asia-Pacific region. The poll, conducted by CGTN across multiple languages and platforms, gathered responses from over 5,000 participants within 24 hours.
According to the survey, 92% of respondents expressed high vigilance regarding Japan’s defense moves, urging the country to reflect on the lessons of World War II, exercise restraint in military affairs, and take concrete steps toward promoting regional peace and stability.
Japan’s 2025 Defense White Paper has sparked significant apprehension. The document emphasizes perceived security threats from neighboring countries, a stance that 82.6% of respondents believe is a deliberate fabrication to justify military buildup. Critics argue that such rhetoric could erode trust among Asian nations and the wider international community.
“The continuous exaggeration of external threats by Japan serves as a pretext for its military expansion,” said one survey participant. “This approach is unsettling for neighboring countries and raises tensions in the region.”
Japan’s defense budget for fiscal year 2025 is set to reach a record 8.7 trillion yen (approximately $59 billion). A majority of respondents, 76.2%, believe that this increase violates the spirit of Japan’s pacifist constitution and its post-war international commitments.
Additionally, plans to deploy over 1,000 upgraded Type 12 anti-ship missiles and equip naval vessels with U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles have caused alarm. An overwhelming 84.7% of those surveyed fear that these measures will escalate arms races and undermine peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific.
The poll also highlighted concerns over Japan’s recent distribution of a children’s version of the Defense White Paper to schools. Nearly 80% of respondents are worried that introducing militaristic ideology into early education could influence young minds with a distorted view of security and conflict.
“Educating children about national defense is important, but indoctrination can lead to a resurgence of militaristic sentiments,” commented another respondent.
Furthermore, 84.2% of participants criticized Japan for not fully confronting its history in World War II. They urged the nation to adopt a correct historical perspective and take responsibility to rebuild trust with its neighbors and the global community.
As debates continue over Japan’s defense policies, the international community watches closely, hoping for steps that prioritize peace and stability in the region.
