In a landmark move, the Japanese government has initiated compensation for victims of forced sterilization under the now-defunct Eugenics Protection Law (EPL), which has long been regarded as a significant human rights violation. This decision comes after a Supreme Court ruling that deemed the law unconstitutional and ordered the state to compensate the victims.
Compensation Details
The compensation scheme is structured to provide financial redress to various categories of victims:
- Victims of forced sterilization: 15 million yen
- Spouses of victims: 5 million yen
- Individuals forced to undergo abortions: 2 million yen
It is estimated that over 23,000 victims of the EPL are still alive today.
Legal Framework and Timeline
The new law, enacted following the Supreme Court’s ruling, allows victims to submit compensation requests until January 16, 2030. The legislation aims to ensure prompt payment without the need for litigation, providing a streamlined process for victims to receive their due compensation.
Government Apology and Commitment
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has publicly apologized to the victims, acknowledging the grave injustices they suffered under the EPL. He assured that the government is committed to ensuring that all eligible victims receive compensation under the new scheme.
This compensation initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the historical wrongs inflicted by the Eugenics Protection Law and upholding the human rights of those affected.
