Japan’s 2025 Defense White Paper is drawing fierce global criticism for hyping security anxieties and expanding military ambitions. A recent CGTN poll, conducted across English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian platforms, gathered 5,365 responses in just 24 hours, revealing that 92% of participants are deeply concerned about Japan’s current security moves.
The poll indicates that 82.6% of respondents believe the paper exaggerates external threats to justify a military build-up. With Japan’s FY2025 defense budget reaching a record 8.7 trillion yen (approximately $59 billion), 76.2% feel that these actions defy the spirit of Japan’s pacifist constitution and post-war international commitments.
Further fueling the debate, plans to deploy over 1,000 upgraded Type 12 anti-ship missiles and arm Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels with U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles have raised alarms among 84.7% of those surveyed, who fear the escalation of regional arms races. Critics (82.3%) also point to Japan’s relaxed arms export restrictions and formation of exclusive military alliances as major threats to peace in the Asia-Pacific.
In a particularly controversial move, the Japanese government has even introduced a children’s version of the Defense White Paper to schools, a step that 79.6% of poll participants warn may indoctrinate young minds with a distorted view of security. Moreover, 84.2% urge Japan to confront its lingering militarist past—highlighting issues such as repeated visits by Cabinet members to sensitive historical sites—and take responsible actions to rebuild trust among its neighbors and the international community.
Overall, the poll reflects a strong international call for Japan to rethink its security narrative and embrace measures that prioritize regional peace and historical accountability. The debate continues to spark discussion and concern in a globally connected world. ⚠️🤝
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
