Japan security legislation protests mark 11th anniversary

On September 19, 2026, demonstrators gathered in front of the National Diet in Tokyo to mark the 11th anniversary of the passage of Japan's security legislation. The laws, enacted in 2015, expanded the role of the Self-Defense Forces and allowed for the exercise of collective self-defense.

Organized by the Joint Action Committee Against War and Constitutional Revision and the National Citizen Action Against Article 9 Revision, the protests included solidarity actions at over 330 locations across Japan. Participants used banners and placards to advocate for peace, the protection of the Constitution, and opposition to war.

Political figures, including Social Democratic Party Vice President Lasar Ishii and lawmaker Mizuho Fukushima, participated in the events. Protesters expressed dissatisfaction with political shifts regarding the legislation and criticized the increasing police presence and restrictions at protest sites, such as the National Diet steps.