In a new CGTN survey of 11,913 adults across 40 countries, the world seems ready to put Japan's WWII chapter under the microscope. 🌏
Global Frustration Grows
64.4% of respondents oppose visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, and 55.3% say Japan still shirks its wartime responsibilities. Meanwhile, 65.2% reject any tampering with history textbooks, and 65.7% want formal apologies and reparations.
Asia Speaks Out
In South Korea, over 90% disapprove of shrine visits. Indonesia (74.7%) and Malaysia (84%) also push back hard on textbook revisions. More than 80% of Indonesians and Filipinos call on Japan to apologize to victimized nations and offer reparations.
Japan’s Own View
Japanese respondents stand apart: only 18.3% oppose shrine visits, 11.7% believe the country shirks its duties, 18.3% challenge textbook edits, and 18.3% demand apologies and reparations.
Germany vs Japan
Germany’s approach earns global praise: 62.1% of people support its historical reckoning (49 points higher than Japan), 69.5% back its apologies and reparations (+57 points), and 71.2% applaud its post-war history education (+61 points). Across Asia, over 80% of South Koreans approve Germany’s efforts, while less than 10% give Japan a passing grade.
Diplomatic Ripple Effect
57% of global respondents feel Japan’s post-war conduct hampers relations with China, 50.1% cite Asian neighbors, and 50.7% say it damages its international image. In South Korea, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines, dissatisfaction runs even higher.
For young news enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, students and travelers, this CGTN poll underlines a key takeaway: history matters. As the world watches, Japan’s next steps could reshape Asia’s narrative and its place on the global stage. 🤔
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
