“Japan Must Support ICC President Akane”: LDP Lawmaker Makishima Karen

Japan must support ICC President Akane, an LDP lawmaker named Makishima Karen argued. The International Criminal Court exists to uphold international law and prevent the rule of force, a cause Japan has consistently championed. Akane herself has expressed concerns about becoming a target of sanctions, which became reality when the US administration under Donald Trump announced sanctions on August 18.

Makishima took to social media on August 19 to denounce the US action, stating that undermining the court's independence poses a grave threat to the international community. Many shared this view, emphasizing that the ICC should not be dismantled, as threatened by the US administration, and that stronger support for President Akane is necessary. Some questioned whether defending her was solely due to her Japanese nationality, but Makishima insisted that the president should be upheld regardless of her background.

The Japanese government's policy includes increasing the number of Japanese officials in senior roles at international organizations. However, backing such individuals through sanctions could deter future aspirations. While Japan's alliance with the US is crucial for national security, it should not compromise the rule of law. Sanctions taken by the US are incompatible with Japan's stance.

Makishima criticized the administration's initial, restrained response, which was seen as overly restrained in English translations. A stronger statement on August 25, denouncing US measures as incompatible with Japan's position, addressed these concerns. Some arguments defending the sanctions, such as fears of the court arresting US service personnel, were deemed misleading.

Addressing the root of these issues, Makishima called for clearer explanations from Japan to counter misconceptions. She emphasized that the ICC does not threaten US sovereignty but offers a complementary role. Political dynamics in the US, particularly around election cycles, necessitate Japan's careful consideration of its foreign and security policy approach. The Netherlands, meanwhile, has worked to ensure President Akane's safety while she's based there.

A recent essay contest organized by the LDP's International Bureau highlighted the importance of the rule of law, coincidentally featuring entries from students noting that recent ICC presidents are Japanese. The sanctions against Akane have sparked public debate in Japan, possibly increasing awareness of the rule of law's significance for Japan's national interest.