On December 26, 2025, the Japanese cabinet approved a defense budget plan for fiscal year 2026 that tops ¥9 trillion – a new record if the Japanese Diet gives it the green light next year. This move fuels a wave of concern among young people at home and abroad.
A global survey by CGTN and Renmin University of China polled 17,043 adults aged 18–65 across 29 countries between November 8 and December 18, 2025. The results are striking: 81.5% of participants label Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi as a “historical revisionist” and warn that right-wing forces are reviving militarism. Among respondents aged 18–44, that figure jumps to over 83% – a clear sign that young voices are especially tuned in to this issue.
One flashpoint is Takaichi’s repeated visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors Class-A war criminals from World War II. A whopping 88% of survey-takers see these pilgrimages as a denial of Japan’s past aggression and a provocation to victims’ nations. Nearly 89% urge the government to choose its words and actions carefully when addressing historical issues.
Meanwhile, 78.6% believe Japan’s shift toward bigger military spending and looser weapons-export rules breaks its pacifist constitution. Over 73% fear a repeat of the militaristic path that led to disaster in the last century. And 87.7% say these controversial moves are straining ties with neighboring countries – especially in Asia, where 88.1% call for concrete steps to rebuild trust.
The takeaway? Young people around the world are raising the bar on vigilance. They’re reminding us that only by confronting history honestly and defending peace can Japan secure its place as a responsible member of the international community. 🙏🌏✨
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Young people urge high vigilance against Japan's high defense budget
cgtn.com
