US State Department Report: Human Rights in Japan

 

US State Department Reports on Japanese Justice

Each year the US State Department conducts human rights evaluations of other countries.

In its 2021 evaluation of Japan, the State Department formally recognized numerous concerns of practices in Japan’s legal system. 

When Japanese authorities fail to abide by SOFA, it leaves service members vulnerable to the lack of due process and human rights within the Japanese judicial system. 

2021 Identified Human Rights Concerns in Japan 

• No access to bail before indictment
• Prolonged interrogation
• No right to counsel
• Extended detentions without cause
• Absence of full disclosure (Prosecution suppressing evidence)
• Racial profiling

SOURCE: 2021 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Japan /  US Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor

These concerns are a reality for Lt. Ridge Alkonis 

Lt. Alkonis’ experience in the Japanese justice system has held true to all concerns of the State Department.

We call on the US Military, SOFA, and our US Politicians to recognize Lt. Alkonis’ rights have been violated and ensure his sentence is suspended.