Photo/Illutration Tetsu Nakamura, left, discusses irrigation channels with local engineers in Afghanistan in December 2003. (Provided by PMS/ Peshawar-kai)

Japanese doctor and humanitarian worker Tetsu Nakamura, who was gunned down in Afghanistan three years ago, knew all too well the weakness and madness of people holding weapons.

That is probably because he was caught in the crossfire of battles many times in the country while working to provide humanitarian aid.

“I thought it took more courage to say, ‘Don’t shoot’ than just to fire, which was really easy,” Nakamura once said in a talk with writer Kazutoshi Hando.

Nakamura must be rolling over in his grave.

A decision has been made on a drastic change to Japan’s security policy. The Cabinet has endorsed three new key security policy documents to declare that Japan will acquire the ability to strike enemy bases (counterattack capabilities).

This is a disturbing move that undermines the principle of a strictly defensive defense. There is a long list of serious questions about this policy shift: What kind of criteria will be used when deciding to launch an attack on an enemy? Are there any reliable safeguards to prevent a pre-emptive strike? Will such capabilities really work as an effective deterrence?

If Japan beefs up its defense capabilities, potential enemies may do so, too. There is also concern about a possibly endless arms race.

The government has said the defense budget will be increased by more than 50 percent to 43 trillion yen (about $316 billion) in five years. Is such a rapid increase in defense spending truly necessary?

Growth in social security spending has been strictly curbed. There can be no defense spending beyond the nation’s economic power.

Some of those who have been calling for more defense outlays are also voicing skepticism about the initiative.

In an interview with The Asahi Shimbun, Yoji Koda, former commander-in-chief of the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Self-Defense Fleet, said the defense buildup plan is “beyond (Japan’s) means.”

Perhaps more time should have been spent on broad debate on the matter. The policy change, which is a decision with massive implications that requires wholeheartedly committed support from the people, is a case of rash and reckless politics.

“Peace requires more effort and perseverance than war,” Nakamura said.

His words sound hollow in the face of this radical and dangerous policy shift.

The Asahi Shimbun, Dec. 18

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Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that takes up a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives on and insights into contemporary Japan and its culture.

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