A Japanese court has ordered the dissolution of the Unification Church, citing manipulative fundraising and recruitment tactics that harmed followers and their families. The decision follows a government request sparked by the 2022 assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
The church’s problems were deemed extensive and continuous, making voluntary reform unlikely. A government spokesperson welcomed the ruling, saying it was a major step towards redress for victims. However, the church has criticized the order as unjust and is considering an appeal.
The Unification Church has faced accusations of excessive donations, particularly in Japan, where members are asked to pay for sins committed by their ancestors during colonial rule. The majority of worldwide funding comes from Japanese followers.
Experts say the church’s ties to Japan’s governing Liberal Democratic Party have been a concern, and the government’s efforts to support victims of the church’s alleged manipulation will continue.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/japan-unification-church-dissolution-d5e1fdf3cb671d6ffeb45d75620ef8b2