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Opinion

Japanese people need to have their say about war and defense

Frank public discussion needed on who would fight, decide and pay

| Japan
A Kawasaki P1 patrol aircraft with the Maritime Self Defense Force approaches Atsugi airbase in 2022: Japan cannot assume that its SDF will be able to perform its role without support from the people.     © Sipa/AP

Takako Hikotani is a professor at Gakushuin University International Center in Tokyo.

Much has changed in Japan since Russia invaded Ukraine a year ago. Opinion polls have shown rising public support for the country to strengthen its defenses. In a separate poll, the public chose the Chinese character for war to represent 2022.

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