02 May 2024 | 02:58 PM UTC
Japan: Rallies, increased security, related disruptions likely during annual nationwide Constitution Memorial Day May 3
Japan to observe annual Constitution Memorial Day May 3. Increased security, localized disruptions, rallies likely.
Japan will observe the annual Constitution Memorial Day holiday on May 3. Public offices, including financial institutions, will remain closed nationwide. Related disruptions to transportation and business services are likely. Although there were no immediate announcements for such gatherings, various sociopolitical organizations are likely to stage rallies. In recent years, tens of thousands of activists have gathered in major urban centers, particularly in Tokyo, regarding proposed revisions to Japan's Constitution.
Potential gathering sites include prominent transportation hubs, government buildings, public squares, parks like Tokyo's Rinkai Disaster Prevention Park, and thoroughfares. Well-attended rallies could draw tens of thousands of participants. Authorities will probably monitor any such gatherings that materialize. Although such events are likely to pass peacefully, isolated minor scuffles between activists and police cannot be ruled out.
Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Plan accordingly for potential business and transport disruptions. Heed all official transport and security disruptions.
The Constitution Memorial Day in Japan commemorates the enforcement of the post-war constitution and honors those who contributed to its establishment. The post-war constitution, notably enshrined in Article 9, renounces war and has been a matter of ongoing debate, especially in light of the exacerbating geopolitical environment. Consequently, this significant holiday holds particular relevance to contemporary sociopolitical discourse, often sparking grassroots-level rallies and discussions regarding potential revisions to the Japanese constitution.
