Japan Enacts Law Banning National Flag Violations

Japan enacted a controversial law making it illegal to publicly damage or deface the national flag, known as the “hinomaru.” The measure targets acts such as tearing, burning, stepping on, or removing flags, including livestreaming content that offends others’ feelings. Violations can bring up to two years in prison or a fine up to 200,000 yen. Opponents argue the wording is too vague and could be used against critics of the government.