Japan Press Weekly

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2024 July 17 - 23 [POLITICS]

PM Kishida apologizes to victims of forced sterilization

Prime Minister Kishida Fumio on July 17 expressed his apology for the sterilizations which people with disabilities and certain diseases had been forced to undergo under the former Eugenic Protection Law (1948-1996).

PM Kishida met with the plaintiffs at the Prime Minister’s Office following the Supreme Court ruling recognizing the old law as unconstitutional and ordering the government to compensate the plaintiffs. He said, “The government is totally responsible for the former eugenic sterilization program. Please accept our sincerest apologies.”

Representing the plaintiffs’ legal team, Niisato Koji said at a press conference, “Finally, we have come this far.” He said that several plaintiffs have died during court battles, blaming the government for the delay in making a political decision. He added that the lawyers will continue to work to bring other ongoing lawsuits to an end with a settlement in favor of the plaintiffs and other victims, including those who have not yet come forward.

A plaintiff said, “I never forget the pain in my heart. I wanted to have children but couldn’t. I don't want anyone to go through the same hardships I did.”

Past related articles:
> JCP Dietmembers talk with victims of forced sterilization [July 5, 2024]
> Supreme court rules forced sterilization unconstitutional, ordering gov’t to compensate victims [July 4, 2024]