A Japanese court has mandated the disbandment of the Unification Church, commonly referred to as the “Moonies,” following intense scrutiny that escalated after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022. The accused assailant reportedly harbored resentment towards Abe due to the latter’s connections with the church, claiming that these ties had led to his family’s financial ruin.
The country’s education and culture ministry initiated the push for the church’s dissolution, alleging that it manipulated its followers into making exorbitant donations and making significant financial sacrifices. In response, the church contended that these contributions were part of legitimate religious practices. The organization now has the opportunity to appeal the ruling issued on Tuesday.
Implications of the court ruling
The decision delivered by a district court in Tokyo will result in the church losing its tax-exempt status and being compelled to liquidate its assets; however, it will still be permitted to operate within Japan. Investigators uncovered that the church had coerced its followers into purchasing high-priced items by preying on their fears regarding spiritual well-being. Nearly 200 individuals have come forward, claiming they were victimized by the church’s practices during this investigation.
The Unification Church, founded in South Korea, has maintained a presence in Japan since the 1960s. The term “Moonies” is derived from its founder, Sun Myung Moon. The organization has faced controversy long before the assassination of Abe, particularly for its teachings that emphasize the importance of marriage in achieving spiritual salvation. It is also known for conducting mass wedding ceremonies that involve thousands of couples.
Political ramifications and compensation claims
Since the beginning of 2023, approximately 200 former members who allege they were coerced into making donations have sought a total of 5.7 billion yen (approximately $38.5 million) in compensation, according to their legal representatives. Investigative efforts following Abe’s death have revealed significant connections between the secretive church and many lawmakers within the conservative ruling party, resulting in the resignation of four ministers. An internal review by the Liberal Democratic Party, led by former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, indicated that 179 out of its 379 lawmakers had interactions with the Unification Church, ranging from attending its events to receiving donations and electoral support.
The extent of the church’s ties with the ruling party has sent shockwaves through the nation, raising serious questions about the influence of such organizations on Japanese politics.