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THE CONSTITUTION OF
JAPAN |
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I introduce the initial parts of the Constitution of Japan
on this page. In particular, please have a look at
Article Nine which mentions the renunciation of war.
We, the Japanese people, acting through our duly elected representatives
in the National Diet, determined that we shall secure for ourselves
and our posterity the fruits of peaceful cooperation with all
nations and, the blessings of liberty throughout this land, and
resolved that never again shall we be visited withthe horrors
of war through the action of government, do procliam that sovereign
power resides with the people and do firmly established this
Constitution. Government is a sacred trust of the people, the
authority for which is derived from the people, the powers of
which are enjoyed by the people. This is a universal principle
of mankind upon which this Constitution is founded. We reject
and revoke all constitutions, laws, ordinances, and rescripts
in conflict herewith.
We, the Japanese people, desire peace for all time and are
deeply conscious of the high ideals controlling human relationship,
and we have determined to preserve our security and existence,
trusting in the justice and faith of the peace-loving people
of the world. We desire to occupy an honored place in an international
society striving for the preservation of peace, and the banishment
of tyranny and slavery, oppression and intolerance for all time
from the earth. We recognize that all people of the world have
the right to live in peace, free from fear and want.
We believe that no nation is responsible to itself alone,
but that laws of political morality are universal; and obedience
to such laws is incumbent upon all nations who would sustain
their own sovereignty and justify their sovereign relationship
with other nations.
We, the Japanese people, pledge our natioanl honor to accomplish
these high ideals and purposes with all our resources.
- Article 1
- The Emperor shall be the symbol of the State and of the unity
of the people , deriving his position from the will of the people
with whom resides sovereign power.
- Article 2
- The Imperial Throne shall be dynastic and succeeded to in
accordance with the Imperial House Law passed by the Diet.
- Article 3
- The advice and approval of the Cabinet shall be required
for all acts of the Emperor in matters of state, and the Cabinet
shall be responsible therefor.
- Article 4
- The Emperor shall perform only such acts in matters of state
as are provided for in this Constitution and he shall not have
powers related to government.
- Article 5
- When, in accordance with the Imperial House Law, a Regency
is established, the Regent shall perform his acts in matters
of state in the Emperor's name. In this case, paragraph one of
the preceding article will be applicable.
- Article 6
- The Emperor shall appoint the Prime Minister as designated
by the Diet. The Emperor shall appoint the Chief Judge of the
Supreme Court as designated by the Cabinet.
- Article 7
- The Emperor, with the advice and approval of the Cabinet,
shall perform the follwing acts in matters of state on behalf
of the people:
Promulgation of amendments of the constitution, laws, cabinet
orders and tr eaties.
Convocation of the Diet.
Dissolution of the House of Representatives.
Proclamation of general election of members of the Diet.
Attestation of the appointment and dismissal of Ministers of
State and other officials as provided for by law, and full powers
and credentials of Ambassadors and Ministers.
Attentation of general and special amnesty, commucation of punishment,
reprieve, and restoration of rights.
Awarding of honors.
Attestation of instruments of ratification and other diplomatic
documents as provided for by law.
- Article 8
- No property can be given to, or received by, the Imperial
House, nor can any gifts be made therefrom, without the authorization
of the Diet.
- Article 9
- Aspiring sincerely to an international peace based on justice
and order, the Japanese people forever renounce war as a sovereign
right of the nation and the threat or use of force as means of
settling international disputes.
In order to accomplish the aim of the preceding paragragh, land,
sea, and air forces, as well as other war potential, will never
be maintained.
The right of belligerency of the state will not be recognized.
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