Takaichi faces rule-of-law scrutiny over U.S. sanctions on ICC
It remains unclear how assertive Japan can be on the matter, as the country has made its alliance with the United States the cornerstone of its diplomacy and security policy.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is facing increased scrutiny over Japan's commitment to the rule of law following the U.S.'s sanctions against International Criminal Court President Tomoko Akane, the first Japanese individual to lead the organization. Takaichi's initial response was deemed insufficient, with critics arguing it did not sufficiently condemn the sanctions.
The prime minister now maintains that the sanctions are "incompatible with the Japanese position" and that Japan must protect Akane and the ICC, a major contributor to global justice efforts. Japan has consistently championed the rule of law and strongly supports the court. However, the government has heightened its vigilance for further U.S. sanctions, particularly if the ICC itself becomes a target, as its operations could be gravely impacted.
Akane herself described the sanctions as a "crisis of the rule of law" and called on Japan to make "maximum efforts" to address the situation, including working with the United States. On Friday, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi engaged in phone conversations with Akane to discuss the predicament surrounding the ICC. Despite this, questions remain about the extent to which Japan can effectively act, considering its primary diplomatic and security relationship with the United States.
The government's decision not to protest or call for the U.S. to withdraw the sanctions has drawn criticism, even from within Takaichi's own party. While the administration claims to be engaging with the U.S. while addressing concerns, an unnamed government official acknowledged that "We can't be too tough on the United States."
This approach has raised concerns about Japan's credibility on the global stage, particularly if it appears to prioritize U.S. interests over the rule of law. Public opinion is closely monitoring the government's handling of the situation, with concerns that any further damage to the Takaichi administration's approval ratings could be significant.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
