Social Democratic Party Criticizes Ministry of Defense Booklet Distributed to Elementary Schools
Tokyo, Japan – September 5, 2025 – The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has raised serious concerns regarding a booklet recently distributed by the Ministry of Defense to elementary schools across Japan. The party alleges that the publication, titled “Bouei” (Defense), attempts to undermine key principles of Japan’s post-war security policy, namely the doctrine of “senshu boei” (exclusive self-defense) and the Three Non-Nuclear Principles.
The SDP’s sharp criticism was vocalized through a press release issued on September 5, 2025, at 07:36 JST. Party leader Fukushima and other members of the SDP have publicly questioned the government’s motives behind distributing such a booklet to young students, arguing that it presents a biased and potentially misleading perspective on national defense.
According to the SDP’s statement, the booklet allegedly downplays or omits the importance of the “senshu boei” principle, which limits Japan’s military capabilities to purely defensive actions. Furthermore, the party contends that the publication neglects to adequately emphasize the commitment to the Three Non-Nuclear Principles – the prohibition of possessing, manufacturing, or allowing nuclear weapons on Japanese territory – which are considered cornerstones of Japan’s pacifist constitution.
The distribution of this booklet to elementary schools has sparked particular unease among the SDP, who believe that children are being exposed to information that could shape their understanding of national security in a manner that deviates from established constitutional and policy frameworks. The party asserts that such materials should be presented with a balanced and comprehensive approach, respecting the historical context and the established principles of Japan’s peaceful foreign policy.
The SDP has pledged to continue its efforts to scrutinize the Ministry of Defense’s educational outreach and to advocate for policies that uphold Japan’s commitment to peace and non-aggression. They are urging for a thorough review of the content and the distribution process of such materials to ensure they align with national educational standards and the fundamental principles of Japan’s security posture. Further parliamentary questioning by SDP members is anticipated as they seek greater transparency and accountability from the government on this matter.
専守防衛や非核３原則を消す ～ 問題の防衛省冊子を小学校に大量配布 ～ 福島党首らが政府を追及
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社民党 published ‘専守防衛や非核３原則を消す ～ 問題の防衛省冊子を小学校に大量配布 ～ 福島党首らが政府を追及’ at 2025-09-05 07:36. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.