Japan enacted a new law on Friday banning desecration of the national flag, a measure pushed by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi that critics say threatens free speech.
The Upper House passed the bill on July 17, 2026, to punish anyone who publicly damages, removes or defaces the Hinomaru flag in ways likely to cause extreme discomfort or disgust to others.
The law takes effect in August. Violators face up to two years in prison or a fine of 200,000 yen. It covers pulling down flags at public buildings, tearing or burning them in public spaces, and livestreaming such acts.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and the Liberal Democratic Party argue the measure protects respect for the flag. Legal experts and opposition lawmakers have raised concerns that its vague wording could be used arbitrarily against government critics.
Chuo University professor Motohiro Hashimoto told a parliamentary hearing that punishing flag vandals amounts to prohibiting criticism of the government. Images in anime or paintings are exempt.
