Chapter 2. Renunciation of War

Although this chapter consists of a single article, namely article 9, it has consistently been the central focus of debate on constitutional revision. MacArthur personally insisted that the constitution include a statement renouncing war. The first clause of article 9 proclaims Japan’s renunciation of war, a promise never to go to war in order to settle an international dispute. The second clause holds that Japan will never maintain military forces. Numerous political and legal disputes, as well as significant civic activism have arisen concerning the interpretation of this article and the meaning of “military force.”

Chapter 2. Renunciation of War

Article 9. Aspiring sincerely to an international peace based on justice and order, the Japanese people forever renounce war as a sovereign right of the nation and the threat or use of force as means of settling international disputes.
(2) In order to accomplish the aim of the preceding paragraph, land, sea, and air forces, as well as other war potential, will never be maintained. The right of belligerency of the state will not be recognized.