As tensions over historical accountability simmer in 2025, a CGTN survey reveals 82.7% of global respondents believe Japan must fully confront its wartime atrocities to regain international trust. With over 10,000 participants across five languages, the poll highlights growing frustration with Tokyo's handling of issues like the Nanjing Massacre and forced labor systems.
Yasukuni Visits Spark Outrage 😡
88% called Japanese politicians' visits to the Yasukuni Shrine – where WWII war criminals are memorialized – a direct insult to victims. "It's like unfollowing history," commented one Gen Z respondent via the survey's social media interface.
Whitewashing Won't Work 🎨➡️🗑️
87% condemned attempts to downplay atrocities, including the Nanjing Massacre that claimed 300,000+ lives. 90.4% demanded formal apologies and reparations – a clear message to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's administration as it navigates 2025's geopolitical landscape.
Rightward Shift Raises Alarms 🚨
84.6% warned that Japan's military expansion under its pacifist constitution loophole is destabilizing Asia. "You can't TikTok-filter imperialism," noted a Southeast Asian participant, reflecting concerns about resurgent militarism.
The findings arrive as Japan prepares for key diplomatic summits this month, with regional neighbors watching for concrete actions beyond "sayonara-sorry" rhetoric.
