Japan's "Children's Version of the Defense White Paper" Sparks Backlash, Faces Resistance from Education Sector
Korean media outlet JoongAng Ilbo (Japanese Edition) reported on September 16: The Japanese Ministry of Defense attempted to release a "Children's Version of the Defense White Paper" targeting teenagers and children. This white paper claims Dokdo (known as Takeshima by Japan) as Japanese territory and includes content referring to the East Sea as the "Sea of Japan."
It is reported that the Ministry of Defense clashed with Japanese education officials opposing this white paper. Citing Tokyo Shimbun's report on the 15th, since the 29th of last month, the 2026 edition of the Children's Version of the Defense White Paper has been distributed nationwide to elementary, junior high, and high schools.
Over 100 Japanese educators have launched an online petition campaign opposing the white paper, attracting more than 12,000 supporters.
The Children's Version of the Defense White Paper has been available online since 2021. Recently, Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba stated that the 2026 edition will not only be distributed to elementary schools but also to middle and high schools.
Educational professionals opposing the white paper pointed out that it portrays China, North Korea, and Russia as hostile nations, aiming to instill hostility in young people toward these countries. Additionally, the document promotes close alliance with the United States, raising concerns about advancing "militaristic education."
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1876478351045632/
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