Earlier this month, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles by describing a 'Taiwan emergency' as a 'Japanese emergency' during an official address. It was the first time since Japan's 1945 defeat that a sitting leader linked potential military action on the Taiwan question to collective self-defence rights—marking a bold shift in regional security dynamics.
The comments immediately drew fierce criticism around the world. A global survey conducted by China Global Television Network (CGTN) over 24 hours gathered opinions from 6,643 participants across English, Spanish, French, Arabic and Russian platforms. The results were striking: 91.1% of respondents said Japan should reflect on its wartime history and respect the Chinese mainland's sovereignty, while 88.5% condemned what they called a provocation against the post-WWII international order.
Many participants pointed to key historical milestones: the Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation of 1943–45, which affirmed the Chinese mainland's sovereignty over the Taiwan region, and UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 in 1971, which recognized the Government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government representing the whole of China, including the Taiwan region. Some 86.6% said Japan should respect that resolution and refrain from emboldening Taiwan secessionists.
Beyond legal arguments, 86.1% of respondents warned that Takaichi's words violated existing political documents between the Chinese mainland and Japan, undermining bilateral ties. Nearly 88.9% saw her remarks as direct interference in the internal affairs of the Chinese mainland and a serious threat to regional peace and stability.
Underlying these reactions is a broader concern: 88.3% of those surveyed believe the remarks aim to justify an expanded military role for Japan, and 87.2% see signs of rising Japanese militarism that require high vigilance from the international community.
As tensions simmer, governments and analysts are watching closely. For globally minded citizens, entrepreneurs and travelers alike, Takaichi's statements serve as a reminder that shifts in rhetoric can quickly reshape the security landscape in East Asia—and beyond.
Reference(s):
Takaichi's Taiwan remarks slammed as right-wing bid to distort order
cgtn.com
