National Governors’ Association Advocates for Reversal of Electoral District Consolidation in the Upper House
On August 22, 2025, the National Governors’ Association (NGA) announced the successful completion of its advocacy efforts to address the consolidation of electoral districts in Japan’s House of Councillors (Upper House) elections. The association has formally requested the resolution to abolish these consolidated districts.
The NGA’s resolution, titled “Resolution Regarding the Abolition of Consolidated Electoral Districts in the House of Councillors Elections,” reflects a deep-seated concern among prefectural governors regarding the impact of these consolidations on regional representation and the fundamental principles of democracy. The association asserts that the current system of “gōku” (consolidated districts), where multiple prefectures are combined into a single electoral constituency, undermines the voices and interests of specific regions.
The core of the NGA’s argument centers on the principle of equal representation. By merging prefectures, the consolidated districts often lead to a situation where the voting power of citizens in smaller or less populated prefectures is diluted. This can result in a disconnect between elected officials and the specific needs and concerns of the diverse regions they are meant to represent. Governors argue that this imbalance can hinder effective governance and prevent local issues from receiving adequate attention at the national level.
Furthermore, the association highlights the potential for consolidated districts to weaken the connection between constituents and their representatives. In a single, larger electoral area encompassing multiple prefectures, it can become more challenging for voters to identify and engage with candidates who truly understand their local context. This can lead to a sense of disenfranchisement and a decline in public trust in the electoral process.
The advocacy activities undertaken by the NGA involved direct engagement with relevant national authorities and policymakers. While the specific details of these meetings are not elaborated in the announcement, the intention is clear: to convey the strong sentiment of prefectural governors and to urge a reconsideration of the current electoral district system. The NGA’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to ensuring fair and equitable representation for all citizens across Japan.
The NGA’s resolution and subsequent advocacy mark a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about electoral reform in Japan. The association’s unified stance is likely to put considerable pressure on the national government and legislative bodies to address these concerns. The call for the abolition of consolidated electoral districts signifies a desire to restore a more direct and responsive link between the electorate and their representatives, ultimately strengthening the democratic fabric of the nation. Further developments are anticipated as the NGA continues its efforts to promote a more balanced and representative electoral system.
「参議院選挙における合区の解消に関する決議」に係る要請活動を実施しました
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全国知事会 published ‘「参議院選挙における合区の解消に関する決議」に係る要請活動を実施しました’ at 2025-08-22 06:30. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.