Supreme Court in Japan Orders Compensation for Victims of Forced Sterilization Under Defunct Eugenics Law

In a landmark decision, Japan’s Supreme Court has ordered the government to pay damages to individuals who were forcibly sterilized under a now-defunct eugenics law, ruling that the practice was unconstitutional and had violated their rights. This historic ruling marks a significant step toward justice for the thousands of victims affected by the controversial law.

The Eugenic Protection Law, which was in effect from 1948 to 1996, allowed authorities to forcibly sterilize people with disabilities, including those with mental disorders, hereditary diseases, physical deformities, and leprosy. The law also permitted forced abortions if either parent had these conditions. The intent behind the law was to prevent the birth of individuals deemed “undesirable” by the state, reflecting a dark period in Japan’s history where human rights were severely compromised.

The Supreme Court’s decision acknowledges the profound suffering and injustice endured by the victims of this policy. Many of those affected have lived with the physical and emotional scars of the forced sterilizations for decades, often facing social stigma and personal trauma. The ruling not only mandates financial compensation but also serves as a formal recognition of the state’s responsibility and a public apology for the egregious violation of human rights.

This ruling has been met with widespread approval from human rights advocates and the general public, who see it as a necessary step towards rectifying past injustices. It also opens the door for further legal actions from other victims seeking compensation. The Japanese government is now tasked with determining the specifics of the compensation process and ensuring that justice is served for all affected individuals. This decision is a crucial reminder of the importance of protecting human rights and upholding the dignity of all individuals, regardless of their physical or mental condition.